Three people were killed and at least five were wounded after a gunman opened fire inside a church Sunday afternoon in the south-western town Neosho, Missouri.

Police said several people were taken to a hospital by helicopter and ambulance.

Police said the gunman began shooting inside the First Congregational Church in Neosho and held 25 to 50 hostages until police entered the church through the basement and took the man into custody.

Neosho Mayor Howard Birdsong said Sunday evening that many of the town's residents who were just learning of the shooting were feeling "utter shock and disbelief."

Police were not releasing the identities of any of the victims or the gunman Sunday night.

Authorities believe the gunman was an acquaintance of someone attending the afternoon church service. Several of those in the congregation fled the church after shots were fired.

The man was carrying three weapons, police said. Hostage negotiators spoke to him for about 10 minutes while police entered through the basement.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!