A police officer was stabbed to death and another injured in a suspected terror attack.
The violent incident occurred in Brussels on Thursday evening, with a Belgian judicial official saying it was suspected to be terrorism-linked.
The suspected attacker was shot and "neutralized" after the stabbing, Belgian police said.
"One of our patrols was attacked by a man armed with a knife," police said.
"The two police officers then called for reinforcements. An officer from another patrol used his firearm to neutralize the attacker."
"The two injured detectives and the assailant were taken to hospital," police added.
A judicial official who could not be quoted by name because the investigation is ongoing told The Associated Press there is "a suspicion of a terror attack." The official did not elaborate.
According to Belgian media, the attacker shouted "Allah Akbar," or "God is great."
Le Soir newspaper said the dead police officer was stabbed in the neck and died in hospital.
A police officer from another patrol reportedly used his firearm to neutralize the attacker.
At least three ambulances and personnel from the Brussels fire brigade went to the scene.
Annelies Verlinden, Minister of the Interior, reacted on her Twitter account, describing the events as "horrible drama". “
She added: "My thoughts go first and foremost to the relatives, to the members of the police zone and to all of the police."
Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo posted a message of condolence to the family and friends of the dead officer.
"Our police officers risk their lives every day to ensure the safety of our citizens," he said.
"Today's tragedy demonstrates this once again."
Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said she was in contact with the Brussels mayor, police chief and security services to co-ordinate the response to the attack.
"Such violence against our people is unacceptable," she said.
