Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has expressed his shock over the fatal shootings which reportedly took place at a large disability management centre in California at about 7am (AEDT) Thursday.

Police have confirmed at least 14 people were killed and another 17 wounded in the brutal attack in San Bernardino, just south of the city.

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“There is a shocking prevalence of violence around the world at the moment,” the Prime Minister told parliament on Thursday.

Police believe up to three gunmen entered the Inland Regional Centre and opened fire on a gathering in the centre’s conference room.

It was reportedly hosting a Christmas event for government employees, but that is unconfirmed.

More than three hours after the shooting the gunmen were still on the run.

However, reports said that one suspect may have been killed during a police pursuit at about 10am (AEDT), while FBI officers are in an apparent standoff with other suspects.

San Bernardino Police Chief Jarrod Burguan refused to confirm reports that the incident occurred at a Christmas party for government workers in the facility’s conference room.

Earlier, a San Bernardino Police Department spokeswoman said: “We don’t know where those shooters are. They are heavily armed.”

“It is not a safe area to be. It is very dangerous.”

She also said the shooting looked to have taken place at an organised event, which had hired out the centre’s function room.

“During that event is when multiple shooters came in and started shooting,” she added.