BERLIN: German federal prosecutors have taken over the investigation of a shooting in the eastern city of Halle that left two people dead.
Germany's federal prosecutors handle cases involving suspected terrorism or national security. German news agency dpa reported that the federal prosecutor's office said it had assumed responsibility for the shooting case.
Police in in the eastern German city of Halle say one person was arrested but it isn't clear whether more suspected assailants remain at large.
Mass-selling daily Bild said on its website the shooting took place in front of a synagogue. Bild reported that a hand grenade was also thrown onto a Jewish cemetery.
"According to initial findings, two people were killed in Halle," local police said on Twitter. "There were several shots. The alleged perpetrators have fled with a vehicle. We are searching urgently and ask citizens to remain in their homes."
The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism when Jews fast for more than 24 hours, seeking atonement.
National rail operator Deutsche Bahn said the main train station in Halle had been closed.
Two killed in attack on German synagogue
Two killed in attack on German synagogue
