A Sunday service at a Michigan church turned into a tragedy after a gunman rammed his truck into the building, opened fire on worshippers, and set it ablaze. Four people are confirmed dead, several others injured, and the suspect was killed in a shootout with police.
How the attack unfolded
- The violence erupted around 10:25 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township.
- The suspect, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, crashed his truck into the church, fired with an assault-style rifle, and started a blaze.
- Initially, police confirmed two deaths and eight injuries. Later, two more bodies were recovered from the debris, raising the death toll to four.
- The entire episode lasted about 10 minutes before Sanford was fatally shot by officers.
The suspect’s background
- Sanford was a former U.S. Marine (2004–2008) who served in Iraq.
- He lived in nearby Burton. His home was searched by bomb squads following reports of possible explosives.
- Social media posts suggest he was married and had a young son born with a rare medical condition.
Casualties and survivors
- Police said one victim remains in critical condition, while seven others are stable.
- Witnesses described chaos after hearing a loud boom before gunfire.
- “Extreme fear,” recalled survivor Paul Kirby, who fled inside with his family after shrapnel struck his leg.
Emergency response
- Striking nurses from a nearby hospital rushed to help treat victims.
- Fire crews battled the blaze, which completely destroyed the church.
Reactions
- President Donald Trump called it a “targeted attack on Christians” and urged prayers for victims.
- Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the attack as “unacceptable in any place, especially a place of worship.”
- Local officials described the tragedy as deeply painful for the tight-knit community.
The church community
- The attack came just a day after the death of Russell M. Nelson, president of the global church, at age 101.
- The Grand Blanc ward had about 150 members. A spokesperson stressed: “Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer, and connection.”
Ongoing investigation
- Motive remains unclear. Investigators are reviewing Sanford’s military history, background, and online activity.
- Authorities confirmed he used a Chevy Silverado truck decorated with American flags and deer antlers on the bumper.
