A devastating attack rocked Grand Blanc, Michigan, when a gunman drove a vehicle into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a packed Sunday service, then opened fire and set the building on fire.
Four people were killed and eight others were injured before the gunman was shot dead by police. The tragedy unfolded just after 10:25 a.m., with hundreds of worshippers caught in panic and fear as chaos quickly overtook the sanctuary.
Officials report that two of the deceased died from gunshot wounds, while two additional victims succumbed to injuries caused by the ensuing fire.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford from Burton, Michigan, was a Marine Corps veteran.
According to police, Sanford fired an assault-style rifle at parishioners and set the blaze using what is believed to have been gasoline as an accelerant.
How Did the Michigan Church Attack Unfold?
As the Sunday service proceeded, Sanford drove his vehicle through the church’s entrance and began firing multiple rounds into the gathering. He then ignited the fire, which soon caused part of the building to collapse.
Police responded immediately to the attack, exchanging gunfire with Sanford outside and fatally shooting him within eight minutes of the first emergency call.
Some churchgoers acted heroically, sheltering children and assisting others in escaping through side exits. Emergency responders managed to evacuate many worshippers as flames engulfed the sanctuary.
The difficult process of searching for victims in the damaged structure continued into Sunday night.
Did you know?
Grand Blanc’s LDS church has held continuous services for over 140 years, making Sunday’s attack the most deadly in its history.
Who Is the Suspect, and How Was He Stopped?
Sanford, the sole attacker, was killed in a gunfight with officers in the parking lot. Law enforcement has since searched his property and begun analyzing his phone records for potential motives.
No manifesto or message has been revealed, and authorities describe the act as one of targeted violence, but have not disclosed if Sanford had ties to anyone at the church.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and law enforcement praised officers’ swift action, which they said prevented further loss of life. The FBI is now leading the investigation, with over 100 federal agents deployed to the region.
What Are the Latest Details on Victims and Injuries?
The shooting left eight additional people hospitalized, most in stable condition, while one remains in critical care. Hundreds of parishioners were inside at the time, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional casualties as the structure is further cleared. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released pending family notification.
Support services and counseling have been made available for survivors, witnesses, and first responders coping with the aftershock of the attack.
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How Are Authorities Handling the Aftermath?
The investigation involves local, state, and federal agencies, including bomb squads and crisis response teams sent due to multiple hoax bomb threats elsewhere in the region.
Churchgoers’ bravery was noted, as many helped shield children and the vulnerable while the violence unfolded. Officials emphasized their commitment to uncovering the assailant's motive and ensuring the safety of places of worship across Michigan.
Both the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and local leaders issued calls for unity and support for those grieving, urging residents not to let fear undermine faith or community bonds.
How have the Community and Leaders Responded?
The attack has drawn strong national reactions. President Donald Trump called it a “targeted attack on Christians,” while state and national political leaders stressed the need for action against violence in sacred spaces.
Religious and civil groups across Michigan are organizing vigils, counseling, and fundraisers for the affected families.
The Grand Blanc LDS church, a longstanding pillar in the area, now mourns the loss of members while reaffirming its commitment to community rebuilding and healing.
Calls for both improved security and lasting solutions to gun violence have emerged, as residents grapple with the impacts of this harrowing tragedy.
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