Iraq blast kills Shiite mayor, 4 family members, official says

Iraqi officials say a bombing has killed the Shiite mayor of a town northwest of Baghdad along with his wife and three children.

Police say the blast late Wednesday targeted the home of the mayor of the town of Mafraq near Baqouba, a former Al Qaida stronghold about 35 miles from the capital.

Police said Thursday the mayor, his wife, two sons and daughter were killed.

A medic at Baqouba hospital confirmed the death toll.

Authorities also said that leaflets were distributed earlier this week in Baqouba telling Shiites to leave the city or face death.

All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to brief the media.

Sunni insurgents launch frequent attacks on Shiites in an attempt to revive sectarian fighting in the country.