Five people died, including the shooter, and multiple others were injured Sunday when a gunman attacked The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, in what President Donald Trump characterized as an “attack on Christianity.”
The FBI is investigating the incident as “targeted violence,” with Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman of the FBI Detroit Field Office leading the federal response.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Reyne identified the suspect as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford from Burton, who used an assault rifle to shoot churchgoers. Investigators believe Sanford set fire to the church using accelerants, preventing victims from escaping while the building burned, and drove his vehicle through the church wall.
Officers arrived within 30 seconds of receiving the 911 call and killed the shooter approximately eight minutes later. Two officers pursued Sanford after he left the church and “engaged in gunfire,” according to Chief Reyne.
The church was a total loss, and officials have not completed debris removal, meaning additional victims might be found. Chief Reyne stated the number of unaccounted individuals remains unknown.
Two victims died from gunshot wounds. Seven people are in stable condition while one remains critical, according to hospital reports. Children were present during the attack, though officials have not confirmed whether any child victims were among the casualties.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agent James Deir confirmed the fire was deliberately set with accelerants. Suspected explosives were found at the scene, though officials have not confirmed whether they were improvised explosive devices.
Following the shooting, several area locations including churches received bomb threats. Michigan State Police Lt. Kim Vetter confirmed authorities investigated and cleared all threatened locations.
The FBI is deploying 100 agents to assist with search warrants at Sanford’s Burton home. Authorities emphasize there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Chief Reyne described acts of heroism within the church, with worshippers using their bodies to shield children from bullets.
“This is a heartbreaking and tragic day for our community,” Sheriff Chris Swanson said. “We are working closely with Grand Blanc Township Police and other local, state and federal partners to bring answers and provide support for the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this senseless act of violence.”
Henry Ford Genesys Hospital treated nine patients injured in the shooting and fire. A hospital spokesperson confirmed the facility is fully staffed with counselors and spiritual care available for patients and staff.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement expressing gratitude for prayers and emphasizing faith during tragedy. “Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection,” said church spokesperson Doug Andersen.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer posted that her “heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.”
Grand Blanc Township Police Department is opening its facilities from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. starting Monday with counselors available for community members needing support. Grand Blanc Schools canceled classes for Monday, September 29.
Family members searching for loved ones can call 248-705-7352. Law enforcement requests the public avoid the shooting scene area until further notice.
