Student shot dead near high school in U.S. New Mexico

A student was shot dead on Friday morning near a high school in Albuquerque, the largest city in southwestern U.S. state New Mexico, authorities said, reported Xinhua.

Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officials said the shooting apparently happened during an off-campus altercation between two individuals. The suspect, believed to be another juvenile, is still on the loose.

A large police presence was near the West Mesa High School after the shooting, which took place at a football field just across the street from the campus. The school was on lockdown following the shooting and dismissed afterwards.

APD spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said it was unclear if the suspect is a student at the school.

"We're still working to identify the suspect," he said at a news conference.