An enormous police operation is currently under way in Watertown, Massachusetts, following the shooting of a police officer in the MIT college building last night. Police have shut down an area in Watertown, requesting residents not to leave their homes and to consider the suspect who has managed to escape, as armed and dangerous.

The two men are suspected of killing the police officer at MIT, stealing a car at gunpoint and later releasing the driver unharmed, according to the Telegraph. Explosive devices have reportedly been used against police during the chase.

It has not been established yet if the suspects are connected to the Boston Marathon bombings which occurred on Monday night, however the use of explosives by the suspects is suggesting that there may be a direct link to the horrific crime.

A photo of the suspects which is currently circulating...

The shooting at MIT was followed by reports of gunshots and explosions in the Watertown area.

Authorities have urged residents in the area to stay indoors and not allow anyone access to their homes, unless the can produce police identification. Dozens of police officers and FBI agents are sweeping the area in an attempt to find the other suspect.

Footage of both suspects has also been released, one which has now been confirmed dead following an exchange of gunfire, the other who is being hunted in the Watertown area.