At least seven people were killed and about 10 others injured after gunmen opened fire inside a church in Jordan’s southern Karak governorate, authorities said on Friday.

The attack occurred at Hammoud Church, where two unidentified gunmen reportedly entered and began shooting, according to a security source who spoke to Jordan’s state broadcaster, Al-Mamlaka.

Some of the injured victims were said to be in critical condition as security agencies launched an investigation into the incident.

An eyewitness told Al-Mamlaka that the assailants arrived at the church in a vehicle before opening fire.

The witness said the gunmen continued shooting for about five minutes before escaping from the scene.

Between 150 and 200 people were reportedly in and around the church when the attack occurred.

The eyewitness also said many of those killed or wounded were between 50 and 70 years old.

Minister of Government Communications Mohammed Al-Momani confirmed that security forces were investigating the shooting.

Authorities had not immediately disclosed the identities of the attackers or established a motive for the violence.

The incident occurred in Karak, an area with a notable Christian population within predominantly Muslim Jordan.

Further details about the victims, the suspects and the circumstances surrounding the attack were expected as the security investigation continued.