Church Tragedy: Once upon a time, Jamaican criminals would steer clear of places of worship. But that’s not so anymore. On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, a gunman allegedly breached the Montego Bay New Testament Church of God and fatally shot a woman.
Law enforcement has identified the deceased victim as 38-year-old Cora Thompson. Her last known address was on Humber Avenue in Montego Bay. Her 12-year-old son
survived her.
According to reports, the brazen church tragedy unfolded at about 2:15 p.m. during a fasting service. The Church is located on Water Lane in Montego Bay.
Worshippers inside expressed disbelief and shock as they heard at least five explosins during the live-streamed fasting and prayer service.
News of the Church tragedy sent shochwaves around the Island, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Eyewitnesses report that a man drove up in a small van, stepped out, and opened fire, hitting a woman multiple times before fleeing the scene.
After being shot, the injured woman managed to stumble inside the church, where fellow worshipers rushed to assist her. Then, they transported her to Cornwall Regional Hospital, where the medical staff pronounced her dead on arrival.
Police pursuing domestic violence as a possible motive for the recent Church Tragedy in Montego Bay
Local residents stated that the woman was a familiar figure who often sold books outside the church, which has deepened the community’s sense of loss and concern.
New reports have surfaced indicating that Thompson’s husband, who recently died from natural causes, was to be buried over the weekend. According to unconfirmed reports, ever since her husband’s death, Thompson has received at least three death threats..
The police stated that investigations into the Church tragedy are ongoing. They have reassured the community that authorities are actively working to uncover the details of what happened.
Regarding the death threats against Thompson, an unnamed officer indicated that the police are considering a domestic dispute as a potential motive.
Additionally, investigators are examining assets believed to be related to a situation involving Thompson’s deceased spouse.