An active shooting incident in the area of a Pittsburgh synagogue on Saturday resulted in "multiple casualties," a police commander said.

Police in Pittsburgh surrounded the Tree of Life synagogue after reports of an active shooter at the building in the city's eastern Squirrel Hill neighborhood, local TV news images showed.

"Do not come out of your home right now, it is not safe," Pittsburgh police Commander Jason Lando warned local residents, in an impromptu news conference at the scene.

It was not immediately clear if anyone had died in the shooting or how many people were injured.

The Pittsburgh Public Safety Department had said on Twitter that there was an active shooter in the area of Wilkins Avenue and Shady Ave, the location of the synagogue.

Local TV news footage showed police at that location with rifles and wearing helmets and other tactical gear. Paramedics also were stationed near the synagogue and police vehicles were blocking some streets in the area.

The Tree of Life synagogue describes itself on its website as a traditional, progressive and egalitarian congregation. Few other details were immediately available.

Reuters

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