Police are hunting the gunman who killed three people Sunday afternoon in Austin, capital of U.S. state of Texas.

During a briefing Sunday afternoon, officials announced that 41-year-old Stephen Nicholas Broderick was identified as the suspected shooter. Broderick might have known the victims that were targeted. Their relationship remains unclear.

The incident was reported shortly before midday, local time, according to the Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services Department.

Austin police said its officers reported to the scene of an "active shooting incident" in the city's northwestern part.

Residents were cautioned to avoid the area while those in the locality were requested to take shelter.

(With input from Reuters, Xinhua)