DEVELOPING: Gunman shoots three at busy intersection near Empire State Building — suspect still on the loose

According to New York City police, at least one gunman remained on the loose Sunday afternoon after shooting three individuals at an intersection in Midtown just a few blocks from the Empire State Building.

The shooting occurred shortly before 5 p.m. along a busy Manhattan thoroughfare, as reported by WNBC.

An initial report by police indicated the violence was preceded by an argument. One witness reportedly heard the verbal altercation, then saw a victim of the shooting on the ground.

The intersection and surrounding area had been cordoned off by authorities, who were reportedly reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses as they conducted their preliminary investigation.

Reports indicate a heavy police presence remained near the intersection of Broadway and 31st Street as of the latest updates available. Several ambulances and other first responders were seen at the location shortly after the shooting.

Each of the three victims sustained injuries officials say are not expected to be life threatening. They were all transported to Bellevue Hospital for treatment.

When news began to spread, some locals used social media to share images and to let their friends and family know that they were OK.

Security firm GardaWorld shared advice for those in the vicinity while the suspect remained at large.

“Individuals in Manhattan are advised to avoid the area, monitor developments to the situation, report any suspicious objects or behavior, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities,” a post on its website read.

As of the latest reports available, there had been no arrests associated with the shooting and there have been no other violent crimes linked to this incident.

CrimeOnline will update this story as more information becomes available.

[Featured image: Twitter/video screenshot]