Three people, including two former Auburn University football players, were killed late Saturday in a shooting at an off-campus apartment complex in Auburn, Alabama.

Authorities believe gunfire erupted during a fight at a party. Three people were also injured.

Auburn Police Chief Tommy Dawson identified the shooting suspect as 22-year old Desmonte Leonard of Montgomery, Alabama

(SOUNDBITE) (English) AUBURN POLICE CHIEF TOMMY DAWSON SAYING:

"I'm saddened by this. This is very much an unusual event for the city of Auburn, and Auburn University. It's sickening that these young lives were cut short, and also the shooter is such a young man. As a society, we've got to learn the value of life again. If I could bring them back today to their parents, I would. Unfortunately, I can't do that. And to the parents and families of these victims, I am very sorry. Please let it be known, we are grieving with you."

Dawson said a manhunt is underway for Leonard, who is considered armed and dangerous.

Deborah Lutterbeck, Reuters