A suspect has been detained after the shooting in Sindelfingen, police in the nearby city of Ludwigsburg have said.

The force had earlier tweeted: "There is currently a police operation on the factory premises. Police and rescue workers are on duty.

"There is no danger to the population."

The site reportedly assembles the manufacturer's S-Class vehicles.

Mercedes Benz has confirmed an incident has taken place in Sindelfingen and it is in touch with authorities.

The company said in a statement: "We are in contact with the authorities and are trying to clarify the facts.

"The safety of the employees comes first."