Children among 'multiple victims' in active shooter situation at elementary school in Oregon

Children were among 'multiple victims' who were shot at an elementary school in Oregon on Thursday. 

Bend police officers said they first received a phone call about shots fired into a vehicle near Silver Rail Elementary School at 12.59pm, and at 1pm, the police department sent out an alert to respond to a critical scene.

Cops then arrived at the scene by 1.02pm and just moments later, the shooter was killed. It is unclear who shot the suspect, with officers suggesting at a news conference he may have been taken down by a bystander.

At least two people were transported to a local hospital in the aftermath, but the extent of their injuries remains unclear. 

Officers are now asking the public to avoid the area as the school remains under lockdown.

Reports from the scene indicate that at least one class has been released, with officers setting up a reunification site for parents of children at the school at the nearby Journey Church, according to the Bend Bulletin. 

In a statement, US Senator Jeff Merkley said his team is monitoring the situation.

'As details continue to come out, my heart is with the Bend community and all of the students and families affected,' he said. 'No one should have to fear violence at school.' 

Senator Chris McDaniel also asked the public to 'please join me in praying for the children at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend, Oregon.

'Pray for the teachers trying to protect them, the parents waiting desperately for word and the officers and first responders rushing to help,' he posted on social media.

'We don't yet know the full story, but somewhere tonight, mothers and fathers just want to hold their babies,' McDaniel noted.

'Lord, protect those children. Bring them home safely.' 

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.