Blast in Istanbul leaves multiple casualties: Reports

An explosion hit central Istanbul on Sunday leaving at least 11 people injured, according to the mayor of Istanbul Ekrem Imamoglu.

"It is essential to assist our police and health teams regarding the explosion on Istiklal Street, and to avoid posts that may cause fear and panic," Imamoglu wrote on Twitter. 

The governor of Istanbul province, Ali Yerlikaya, said on Twitter that "There are casualties and injuries."

Videos shared on social media showed multiple people on the ground amid blast damage. The footage showed an ambulance and police arriving on the scene.

Turkish media reports indicated the blast occurred at 4:20 p.m. local time (1330 GMT). Video posted online taken at the time of the blast showed a fireball overwhelming the crowded street as pedestrians strolled before abruptly turning, many running scared.

On social media, users said Istiklal Street, just off Taksim Square, was cordoned off as shops closed.

Istiklal Street runs through the central district of Beyoglu, home to many foreign residents and frequented by tourists.