Police in Baton Rouge, Louisiana are on the hunt for one or more people wearing masks, all black or military clothes after six law enforcement officials were shot. Three officers were killed while three others were injured when the incident began shortly before 9am local time (3pm BST).
One suspect was shot dead and his body was checked for explosives with a robot. Two others are at large following the attack, which took place close to the police headquarters and a highway.
Appealing for anybody who may have information to get in touch with authorities, CNN quoted Baton Rouge Police Cpl L'Jean Mckneely as saying: "If they are wearing army fatigues; if they are wearing all black; if they are wearing a mask; if they are wearing anything that's out there, please, give us a call."
The officials were fired at after responding to a report that a man was walking along a local street carrying an assault rifle.
McKneely confirmed that authorities are actively working the scene. "If anybody in this area saw anything suspicious, please give law enforcement a call." He added: "We are asking for your assistance, we need your assistance."
Baton Rouge shooting: Authorities hunt for suspects in army fatigues following police killings