CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred less than a block from West Charlotte High School.

Authorities said there was a verbal dispute on Senior Drive in front of the city recreation center that escalated into a fist fight; then at least one shot was fired around 3:30 p.m.

The victim was taken to Carolinas Medical Center where he died during surgery. Homicide detectives have responded to the scene of the shooting.

Police said the victim, whose name has not been released, was not a West Charlotte student. Details about the shooter have not been released because police do not want to jeopardize the investigation.

Officers said they are having a hard time getting information from witnesses.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools officials said school was not in session at the time of the shooting, but band and athletic practices were still going on there. They said none of the students were injured and none of the practices had to be moved.

Children were present in the recreation center, however, when the incident occurred.

Police said the crime scene blocked traffic for several hours.