At least three law enforcement officers were killed in a shooting in Charlotte, North Carolina, while trying to serve a warrant Monday afternoon, police said. A suspect was killed in a shootout with police, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings announced during a news conference.

“Today is an absolute tragic day for the city of Charlotte and for the profession of law enforcement,” Jennings told reporters.

A U.S. Marshals Service fugitive task force comprised of officers from multiple agencies was attempting to serve a warrant on an individual for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in east Charlotte when the shooting started, Jennings said.

When officers approached the individual at a residence, they were met with gunfire and then returned fire, hitting the individual, Jennings said. The person was later pronounced dead in the front yard.

More gunfire came from inside the residence as officers approached the individual, setting off a long standoff, Jennings said.

A U.S. Marshals Service fugitive task force comprised of officers from multiple agencies was attempting to serve a warrant on an individual for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in east Charlotte when the shooting started, Jennings said.

When officers approached the individual at a residence, they were met with gunfire and then returned fire, hitting the individual, Jennings said. The person was later pronounced dead in the front yard.