Police officer among six dead in deadly shootout in New Jersey

Police arrive on the scene following reports of a shooting Credit: Seth Wenig/AP

A police officer is among six people killed following a shooting in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Authorities said they believe the shootout in Jersey City, New Jersey was not an act of terrorism, but the bloodshed was still under investigation.

Two police officers injured and bystanders were rushed to safety.

Heavy gunfire could be heard as the standoff between police and the shooter continued for several hours.

Officials gave no immediate details on what set off the shooting and how it unfolded, and there was no word on how many suspects were involved or whether anyone had been taken into custody.

An antit-errorism unit arrives at the scene of a shooting in Jersey City Credit: Eduardo Munoz Alvarez/AP

One officer was pronounced dead at a hospital, and multiple other people were found dead at a kosher supermarket, Mayor Steven Fulop said without specifying how many were killed.

A second officer was struck in the shoulder by gunfire, and two others were hit by shrapnel, Mr Fulop said.

President Donald Trump tweeted: "Just received a briefing on the horrific shootout that took place in Jersey City, NJ.

"Our thoughts & prayers are w/ the victims & their families during this very difficult & tragic time.

"We will continue to monitor the situation as we assist local & state officials on the ground."