German president 'horrified' by 'murderous attack' in Munich

German President Joachim Gauck said Friday he was "horrified" by the "murderous attack" in a Munich shopping centre which left at least eight people dead.

"I am with all the victims in my thoughts and all those who are mourning or fearful for loved ones," he said in a statement, adding that his "solidarity" was with emergency services personnel trying to "protect people and save lives".

Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere, who was on a flight to the New York when the shooting rampage began, will immediately return to Germany, a ministry spokesman told AFP.