A shooting in the German city of Hamburg has left six dead tonight (Thursday) - with a further seven seriously injured, say reports. The mass shooting is said to have happened in a church in the northern German city.
A further 17 people are known to have less significant injuries. Police responded to emergency calls around 9pm local time this evening and reports say the shooters are on the run and a major police operation is underway, reports MirrorOnline.
Authorities have warned of an "extreme danger" and residents nearby were warned to leave their homes as the operation continued and have also instructed people to stay away from the area, reported to be near a Jet gas station.
Local reports indicate the scene is a centre for Jehovah's witnesses and is located in the Alsterdorf area of the city. It's also been reported that there are road cordons in place in Gross Borstel, Deelboege, and part of Eppendorf neighbourhoods.
Hamburg police said: "According to initial findings, a shot was fired in a church on Deelböge street in the #GroßBorstel district. Several people were seriously injured, some even fatally.
"We are on site with a large contingent of forces. Further information follows. #schießerei #h0903"
They later added: "So far, there is no reliable information on the motive for the crime. We ask that you do not share unsecured assumptions and/or spread rumours. #schießerei #hh0903"
