Pathways Church Shooting in Jamaica: Witness Reveals Chilling Details of Pastor Kevin Smith’s Alleged Gunfire During Deadly Montego Bay Church Ritual
A shocking account of the deadly Pathways Church shooting in Montego Bay, Jamaica, has resurfaced during court proceedings, as a former church member testified about allegedly being shot twice by the late religious leader, Dr. Kevin O. Smith.
The testimony relates to the October 17, 2021, incident at Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in St. James, where a controversial religious gathering ended in multiple deaths, injuries, and a major police investigation.
Witness Describes Terrifying Pathways Church Shooting
During testimony reported in September 2026, a former church member broke down in court while describing the frightening events inside the religious compound.
The witness alleged that Smith obtained a firearm from a female police officer and began shooting toward responding police personnel. He claimed he attempted to take cover behind a column before being struck twice in the back.
According to the testimony, Smith subsequently approached the injured congregant and insisted that he could not die, allegedly claiming he was immortal.
The emotionally charged testimony became a significant development in the ongoing murder trial of Andre Ruddock, who is accused of involvement in the deadly church ritual.
What Happened at Pathways Church in 2021?
The original incident unfolded on October 17, 2021, when police responded to reports of violence at the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries compound.
Two congregants were killed during the gathering, while a third person was fatally shot by police. Among the victims was 39-year-old Taneka Gardner, whose death became central to the subsequent murder proceedings.
Investigators also examined firearms evidence associated with the confrontation. Ballistic testing later linked cartridge cases recovered from the scene to a policewoman’s firearm.
Murder Trial Brings Renewed Attention to Church Tragedy
The case continues to attract public attention as witnesses recount their experiences during the gathering.
Ruddock faces a murder charge connected to Gardner’s death. His defence has challenged the prosecution’s account and sought to place responsibility on Smith, whose alleged actions remain an important issue in the proceedings.
Smith died in a motor vehicle crash on October 25, 2021, while being transported to Kingston to face charges. His death meant that he never stood trial over the incident.
The latest courtroom testimony has renewed scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the Pathways Church tragedy, the involvement of security personnel, and the events that preceded police intervention.
Latest Pathways Church Shooting Update
As of October 19, 2026, the latest reporting identified concerns testimony about the 2021 incident rather than a newly confirmed shooting at the church.
The proceedings remain important to understanding what happened inside Pathways Church and determining legal responsibility for the deaths. Allegations presented by witnesses should not be treated as established judicial findings while the case remains before the court.
Latest Court Development — October 15, 2026
In the latest verified report, a detective constable denied allegations that he threatened Ruddock with his service pistol or physically mistreated him. The defence has challenged the circumstances surrounding Ruddock’s alleged confession, with the court examining whether the disputed statement should be admitted as evidence.