A police investigation is ongoing after a balaclava-clad man potentially fired a gun on Deansgate.
Officers were called to the incident in the city centre at around 3am yesterday morning (Monday).
A large section of the busy road was cordoned off as Tactical Aid Unit officers and sniffer dogs scoured the scene.
In an update issued today (Tuesday), the force said enquiries are still ongoing to determine whether a legitimate gun was discharged.
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They said the man, who was wearing a balaclava, fled the scene.
No injuries have been reported and an investigation is ongoing.
Police said they were initially called to a 'report of a man making threats with a firearm'.
Pictures taken yesterday showed specialist officers examining the area within the cordon that was in place.
They appeared to be focusing on what looked to be a casing in the road.
They had sniffer dogs at the scene and were pictured searching through some drains.
Detectives were also spotted going into the Club V nightclub on Deansgate, which is believed to have closed down.
They also appeared to be looking for a bullet hole on the wall above the entrance.
A shopkeeper, who works near the scene, told the M.E.N that one of his staff members heard a bang at around 3am.
He said: "A member of staff was here at about 3am and heard a bang.
"He thought it must be a car crash."
Detective Inspector Dan Hadfield of GMP's City of Manchester division said: "We understand the worry and concern that this incident has caused, particularly due to its location and with it being the lead up to Christmas.
"I want to reassure the public that we are doing all that we possibly can to piece together what has occurred and ensure the person responsible is identified and apprehended.
"It is unclear at this stage whether or not a firearm was discharged at the scene and we are working tirelessly to establish the full circumstances.
"I would however encourage anyone who may have been on the road at the time or witnessed what occurred to please get in touch with us as soon as possible.
"We're particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have video footage."
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4409, 101 or via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk quoting incident 256 of 13/12/21.
Details can also be passed via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
