Facebook shooting: Manhunt under way in Cleveland after suspect shoots man while live streaming video

Police say the suspect, named as Steve Stephens, should be considered armed and dangerous.

Police are hunting for suspected murderer Steve Stephens, who they have warned is 'armed and dangerous' (Reuters)

A manhunt is underway in Cleveland, Ohio, for a suspect who police say killed a man on the street on Sunday while streaming it live on Facebook.

Police are searching the Cleveland area and beyond for a man named Steve Stephens.

The suspect filmed himself walking up to an elderly man and shot him while streaming the video live, Cleveland Police Chief Calvin Williams said.

The victim has been identified as 74-year-old Robert Goodwin Sr.

Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson publicly urged Stephens to turn himself into police and not to "do anymore harm to anybody."

"Any problems he is having, we can have a conversation," Mr Jackson said.

In the video, Stephens claimed to have killed more than a dozen other people. Mr Williams said police have not verified that information.

"There are no more victims that we know are tied to him," he added.

The police chief also said they have been speaking to Stephens' friends and family.

"What happened today was senseless," Mr Williams said.

US authorities said Stephens broadcast the video live on the social media network on Sunday afternoon. It was up for about three hours before it was removed. Stephens Facebook page has also been removed.

"This is a horrific crime and we do not allow this kind of content on Facebook," a Facebook spokesperson said.

"We work hard to keep a safe environment on Facebook, and are in touch with law enforcement in emergencies when there are direct threats to physical safety."

Police said Stephens should be considered armed and dangerous.

AP contributed to this report