3 killed in Germany as van plows into pedestrians

Three people were killed in the western German city of Muenster after a van drove into area with scores of pedestrians.

The police report that the driver of the vehicle killed himself, but gave no further details. They confirmed, too, that they are not looking for other suspects.

According to media reports, 30 persons were also injured in the incident, some of whom are said to be in a serious condition.

Police have closed the area and asked people to avoid the city centre.

They said a suspicious object was found in the van but did not specify what it was.

Police spokesman Andreas Bode said it was still too early to declare the incident an attack.

The incident occurred in an area where there are a number of traditional inns and restaurants, some with outdoor seating.

Photographs posted on social media showed tables and chairs strewn at the scene.

An eyewitness told the BBC that he saw the vehicle drive at speed into a restaurant's seated area, suggesting it was a deliberate attack.

Ulrike Demmer, the federal government's deputy spokesperson, said the government's thoughts were with the victims and their families.