DHAKA: Police in the US state of Texas say nine people have been killed in a shootout between rival biker gangs in the city of Waco.

The incident happened at the Twin Peaks Sports Bar and Grill in a shopping area called the Central Texas Market Place, reports bbc.com.

Police said eight had died at the scene and a ninth in hospital - all were bikers. At least 18 others were hurt.

One witness quoted by the Waco Tribune-Herald said the car park of the restaurant resembled "a war zone".

"There were maybe 30 guns being fired in the parking lot, maybe 100 rounds," Michelle Logan said.

Diners at the Twin Peaks cafe said they and the staff had locked themselves in a freezer room for safety before being escorted off the premises by armed police.

BDST: 0934 HRS, MAY 18, 2015
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