Nine Killed in Biker Gang Shootout

Police in the US State of Texas say eight bikers died at the scene, a ninth in hospital and 18 others wounded in the incident.

Police told local reporters that they were still stunned that none of the families eating in nearby restaurants were wounded in the crossfire as members of up to five gangs fought.

Police further added that this was one of the worst gunfights ever recorded in the city limits.

Authorities ordered businesses in the area closed and moved witnesses and suspects to safety, amid reports that more gang members were heading to the area to pursue the feud.

OUTLAW GROUPS

Local news outlets also reported that the wounded mostly suffered from gunshot and stab wounds and that more than 100 weapons were collected from the scene.

The so-called outlaw biker clubs sprang out of an American counterculture movement in the second half of the 20th century, with some now having global affiliations.

Recognisable by their leather jackets bearing gang insignia, at base the groups are clubs for like-minded individuals who share a love for motorcycles and disrespect for authority.

Many group chapters elect their own leaders and have their own by-laws, symbols and initiation rules and have in the recent past allegedly become involved in organised crime.

In the United States they are particularly associated with gunrunning and drug trafficking, with some outlaw biker clubs or their chapters being formally designated as organised crime groups by the FBI.