Obama vows support for Germany after Munich shooting

US President Barack Obama today pledged support to Germany in the wake of a deadly shooting rampage in Munich, as officials said they were working to determine if any US citizens were affected.

Obama, speaking at a meeting with law enforcement officials, said he had been briefed on the unfolding drama in Germany, where at least six people are believed dead in a shooting at a shopping center in Munich.

"Our hearts go out to those who may have been injured. It's still an active situation, and Germany's one of our closest allies, so we are going to pledge all the support that they may need in dealing with these circumstances," he said.

At the State Department, spokeswoman Elizabeth Trudeau said US officials were working with local authorities to determine if any US citizens were affected by the incident.

American citizens in Germany were urged to contact loved ones to let them know their whereabouts.

"For your own safety, avoid squares and streets: perpetrators are on the run," said a statement on the website of the US embassy in Germany.

"Continue to shelter in place, contact your family members to let them know you are safe, and follow the instructions of police and emergency personnel.