A woman has died following a shooting incident that disrupted a church service in Montego Bay, sending worshippers into panic as gunshots rang out inside the church.

The incident occurred at the New Testament Church of God, where congregants had gathered for a day of fasting and sermon. According to police, the victim, who was later confirmed to be female, was shot during the attack and rushed to hospital.

Head of the St James police division, Senior Superintendent Eron Samuels, confirmed that officers responded to the scene shortly after the incident and have since launched an investigation. The area has been cordoned off as detectives continue their probe.

Footage circulating online shows the moment the service was interrupted, with loud explosions heard while a pastor was preaching. Several women can be seen and heard shouting “the blood of Jesus” as persons scrambled for safety and the service came to an abrupt halt.

Initial reports indicated that the victim had been receiving treatment at hospital. However, journalist Andre Williams later reported that the woman succumbed to her injuries.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and no suspects have been officially identified. Investigators are appealing to anyone with information to assist as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Watch footage from the incident below: