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Multiple Deaths After Shots Fired in Munich Shopping Center

Policemen arrive at Olympia shopping center in Munich, Germany, Friday, July 22, 2016. Matthias Balk / dpa via AP
July 22, 2016

At least six people were killed during a shooting spree at the Olympia shopping center in Munich, Germany, on Friday evening, according to authorities.

Munich police said three suspected gunmen armed with rifles are at large. One of the attackers fatally shot himself, local media reported. A major police operation is underway.

No one has claimed responsibility for the attack yet, but sympathizers of the Islamic State terrorist group celebrated the shooting in social media posts.

"Thank God, may God bring prosperity to our Islamic State men," one tweet read in Arabic, according to Reuters.

German authorities evacuated the mall, and Munich’s transit system has been shut down as police search for the gunmen. Authorities advised people to stay home and avoid public places.

Munich authorities rushed to the scene after receiving multiple calls that an armed man had entered the shopping center. Police said they have drafted law enforcement forces from Austria to assist in the manhunt, which has moved beyond Munich.

The attacks come four days after a teenage Afghan refugee armed with an axe and a knife attacked approximately 20 passengers on a train near Munich.

This post will be updated as more information becomes available.

Published under: Germany , Terrorism