WASHINGTON - A drive-by shooter opened fire on a crowded block in Washington early Tuesday evening, killing three people and wounding six others.

One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, the second upon arrival at the hospital and the third in the operating room.

A fourth victim remained in critical condition, Washington Hospital Center spokesperson Carolyn Hammond said.

Police Chief Cathy Lanier said the shooter opened fire "into a crowd," hitting six men and three women.

Aided by a helicopter, police units pursued a van from the scene of the shooting, arresting three people and recovering a weapon.

Four officers were lightly injured during the pursuit. Police as yet have no motive for the shooting on South Capitol Street in the southeastern part of the city.