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New Zealand mosque shooting: Active shooter reported after Christchurch mosque attack | |
(32 minutes later) | |
Gunshots have been heard near the Al Noor mosque in Christchurch, New Zealand, local media report, as police warn of a "critical incident". | |
Witnesses told local media that several people appeared to be injured inside the building. Police have warned people to avoid the area. | |
All schools in Christchurch have been placed on lockdown, police commissioner Mike Bush said. | All schools in Christchurch have been placed on lockdown, police commissioner Mike Bush said. |
Eyewitnesses have reported running for their lives to escape a shooter. | |
Mohan Ibrahim told the New Zealand Herald: "At first we thought it was an electric shock but then all these people started running. | |
"I still have friends inside. | |
"I have been calling my friends but there are many I haven't heard from. I am scared for my friends lives." | |
The Al Noor mosque is located in central Christchurch along Dean Avenue, facing Hagley Park. | |
Witnesses have reported seeing bodies, but this has not been confirmed by police or officials. | |
There are reports that a second mosque has been evacuated. | |
Officers have reportedly also cleared Cathedral Square, where thousands of children were holding a rally for action on climate change. | |
Police Commissioner Mike Bush said: "A serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter. | |
"Police are responding with its full capability to manage the situation, but the risk environment remains extremely high. | |
"Police recommend that residents across Christchurch remain off the streets and indoors until further notice. Christchurch schools will be locked down until further notice. | |
"Police thanks the public for their cooperation and will provide further updates to keep residents informed." | |
A reporter following the Bangladesh cricket team, who are currently in New Zealand, tweeted that that had "escaped from a mosque near Hagley Park where there were active shooters". |