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WASHINGTON, Nov 12: At least five people were shot in a shooting incident in Washington, D.C., on Thursday morning, triggering a massive police deployment and security lockdown in a neighbourhood about a mile from the White House.
The shooting took place in the Logan Circle neighbourhood, near the intersection of 15th Street and P Street NW, shortly before 8:00am local time.
Police rushed to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire at multiple locations.
Officers cordoned off surrounding streets and urged residents, visitors and commuters to avoid the affected area, particularly the 1500 block of 15th Street NW.
The incident reportedly occurred both inside and outside the VIDA Fitness centre. Witnesses said people fled the area after hearing gunshots.
According to reports by the Associated Press, at least five people were shot.
A witness said one man was shot inside the fitness centre and later died. However, authorities had not officially confirmed the reported death at the time of the initial reports.
Police said a suspect was believed to be barricaded inside a nearby building and had not yet been taken into custody.
A large number of armed police officers, including tactical response personnel, were deployed as part of the operation.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also sent agents to assist local law enforcement.
Nearby schools were placed under lockdown as a precaution, while residents were advised to remain indoors and stay away from windows.
Authorities have yet to establish the motive behind the shooting or release the identities and full medical conditions of the victims.
The incident remains under investigation, with police continuing their search for the suspect.
