A Sunday Worship Service Turned Into Tragedy
A quiet Sunday morning turned into chaos when a gunman drove his vehicle through the front doors of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, opening fire on worshippers and setting the building ablaze. Authorities confirmed that at least two people are dead and 10 others were injured, several critically.
The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, Michigan, was shot and killed in a gunfight with responding officers. Police believe Sanford acted alone.
What We Know About the Attack
The violence began around 10:25 a.m. as the congregation gathered for its sacrament service. Sanford allegedly rammed his vehicle into the sanctuary entrance, then opened fire with what police described as an assault-style rifle. Moments later, flames erupted inside the building, quickly spreading through the church and trapping some congregants.
“Ten gunshot victims have been transported to local hospitals at this time, including one who has been deceased,” said Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye. Fire officials added that additional victims may be found as the burned structure is searched.
Suspect Background
Fox 2 Detroit reported Sanford was a U.S. Marine veteran who served in Iraq. He lived in Burton with his wife and child. Investigators are currently searching Sanford’s home and digital records to determine motive.
During the investigation, authorities discovered three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in his vehicle, prompting the deployment of bomb squads and robots.
Federal Response
The FBI and ATF are leading the federal investigation. More than 100 federal agents have been deployed to assist state and local law enforcement. Search warrants have been executed at Sanford’s residence, and officials are reviewing his cell phone and other devices for evidence.
National Leaders React
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, calling the attack a “targeted assault on Christians” and vowing federal support.
“This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!” Trump wrote.
Vice President JD Vance echoed the sentiment, calling it an “awful situation” and asking for prayers for victims and first responders.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned the shooting as “heartbreaking and chilling,” while confirming FBI and ATF agents were on scene.
Church Statement
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement calling the shooting a “tragic act of violence.”
“During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available,” the statement read.
The church expressed gratitude for emergency responders and said it was “deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world.”
Community Response
Video from the scene showed dark smoke billowing into the sky, dozens of fire trucks, and emergency personnel rushing gurneys toward the church. Local hospitals confirmed they were treating victims, with some in critical condition.
Striking hospital staff even left picket lines to assist in treating victims, highlighting the community’s swift response.
Still Under Investigation
Authorities have not released a motive. They continue to search the fire-damaged church for possible additional victims and evidence. Officials warned that the scope of the tragedy may grow as the investigation unfolds.
For now, a Michigan community is left in shock, mourning lives lost in what should have been a peaceful place of worship.
Jimmy
h/t: Steadfast and Loyal
