Police officer fatally shot at MIT followed by shootout in Watertown

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) – A police officer was fatally shot at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Thursday night.

According to MIT's official Twitter account, gunshots were reported near building 32 on the school's campus around 10:48 p.m.

The MIT police officer was responding to a report of a disturbance in the area of Vasser Street and Main Street when he was shot. The victim was taken to Mass. General Hospital where he was pronounced dead, the Middlesex District Attorney's Office said.

Authorities said when they arrived at the scene the officer appeared to have been shot multiple times.

It is unclear whether or not a large scene in Watertown is related to the shooting at MIT.

Dozens of officers and National Guard members are in Watertown, where there are reports of gunfire and explosions. A helicopter was circling overhead.

Authorities early Friday were calling for somebody to get on the ground and put their hands up and a loud thud was heard after someone shouted "fire in the hole."

Reporters are being told to move away from the scene. A police officer told a reporter: "If you want to live, turn off your cell phone."

Stay with FOX 25 for further updates.

Cox Media Group