German newspaper Bild is now reporting that a heavily armed man has recently entered a cinema in west Germany.

It is believed that shortly after arriving on the scene in the city of Viernheim near Frankfurt, he began firing his weapon.

He may have also taken several hostages, reports The Telegraph citing local news sources. 

Local media is furthermore reporting that up to 50 people have been injured – with half of those supposedly sporting injuries from tear gas.

Police are at the scene.