A massive police operation is underway in Vienna (photo courtesy Nine News).
A suspected terror attack is unfolding in the city of Vienna just hours before the Austrian capital was set to enter COVID-19 lockdown.
Police are out in force hunting for the perpetrators of an attack on a Vienna synagogue after a flurry of shots rang out in the city centre near the famous Danube river.
Austria’s interior minister has confirmed that one attacker has been killed by police, with another believed to be on the run.
“There are several injured persons”, Austrian Police tweeted.
“We are on site with all available forces. Please avoid all public squares in the city.”
It had been a busy night in the city as Austrians prepared to enter COVID-19 lockdown at midnight.
Local broadcasters say several shots were heard shortly after 8pm on Monday night (6am Tuesday AEDT).
There have also been reports that one offender has detonated a suicide bomb.
Police are telling city residents to avoid all open spaces and public transport.
The synagogue where it’s believed the attack began was closed at the time.
Rabbi Schlomo Hofmeister told The Associated Press that he saw at least one person fire shots at people sitting outside bars in the street below his window.
“They were shooting at least 100 rounds just outside our building,” Rabbi Hofmeister said.
“All these bars have tables outside. This evening is the last evening before the lockdown.
“As of midnight, all bars and restaurants will be closed in Austria for the next month and a lot of people probably wanted to use that evening to be able to go out.”
