BAGHDAD — Iraqi authorities say a roadside bomb explosion followed by a gunbattle north of Baghdad killed three people, including a Sunni candidate running in the upcoming provincial elections.

Police officials said Sunday's attack occurred when a roadside bomb hit the convoy of Najam Saeed. The blast was followed by shooting between gunmen and the candidate's bodyguards.

Police say two of Saeed's brothers were killed and that the candidate's son and three bodyguards were wounded in the attack near Muqdadiyah town, 90 kilometers (60 miles) north of Baghdad.

Medics in a nearby hospital confirmed the death casualties.

All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media.

At least 13 other candidates have been killed in previous attacks ahead of the April 20 ballot. — AP