Grand Blanc, Michigan – A peaceful Sunday morning service turned into a nightmare at a Mormon church when a gunman crashed his vehicle into the building, opened fire on worshippers, and set the place ablaze. At least four people lost their lives, and eight others were hurt in the attack. The shooter, a 40-year-old local man, was killed by police just minutes after the violence began.
The horror unfolded at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, about 60 miles northwest of Detroit. Hundreds of people were inside for worship around 10:25 a.m. local time. That’s when Thomas Jacob Sanford, from nearby Burton, drove his truck straight through the front doors.
Police Chief William Renye of Grand Blanc Township described the scene at a news conference. “The suspect drove a vehicle into the building,” he said. “He then opened fire with an assault-style rifle, shooting several rounds at individuals inside.” Two victims died right away from gunshot wounds. Later, search teams found two more bodies inside the burned-out church. Some people are still missing, but officials could not give an exact number.
After shooting, Sanford poured gasoline or another fuel to start a big fire. Thick smoke and flames quickly filled the building. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours. “The entire church has not been cleared because it’s a total loss due to the fire,” Chief Renye added. Bullets from the shooter’s gun even went off as they heated up in the flames, making the rescue harder.
Church members showed great bravery amid the chaos. Some adults shielded children and helped others escape. Chief Renye praised their actions as “heroism.” One video from the scene shows families hugging and crying outside, safe but shaken.
Police arrived in under a minute after the first 911 call. Two officers – one from the township and one from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources – faced off with Sanford in the church parking lot. They shot him dead at 10:33 a.m., just eight minutes after the attack started. No officers were hurt.
Who was the gunman? Records show Sanford was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in the Iraq War. He lived close by in Burton. Investigators are now searching his home and checking his phone records to learn why he did this. The FBI calls it an “act of targeted violence,” but the reason is still not clear. Some reports mention Sanford had PTSD from his time in service, but nothing points to a specific grudge against the church.
The FBI is in charge of the federal probe. They sent 100 agents, plus bomb experts and crisis teams to the site. Michigan State Police also checked out fake bomb threats at other spots nearby. “We’ve responded and cleared those locations,” said spokeswoman Kim Vetter.
Bomb squads are looking for any hidden dangers. The church building is badly damaged, with the roof partly collapsed. Families waited outside for hours, hoping to hear about loved ones.
Leaders from all sides spoke out against the attack. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social: “This is yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America.” He said he was briefed and that the FBI would lead the investigation.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X: “Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said: “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.” She is keeping a close eye on things and thanked first responders.
Mitt Romney, a former senator from Utah and a well-known Mormon, called it a “tragedy.” He added: “My brothers and sisters and their church are targets of violence. Praying for healing and comforting.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints put out a statement: “A gunman opened fire during worship services, and multiple individuals were injured. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
This sad event is part of a bigger problem with gun violence in America. Groups like the Gun Violence Archive say it’s the 324th mass shooting in 2025 so far. Just months ago, another shooting happened at a church in Wayne, Michigan.
Grand Blanc is a quiet town of about 8,000 people. The church served around 150 members, and the group was growing. Now, the community pulls together to support each other. Counselors are on hand for those who saw the attack.
As the sun set on Sunday, smoke still rose from the ruins. Families lit candles and held hands in prayer nearby. One survivor told reporters: “We just want our friends back. But we know God is with us.”
Investigators promise answers soon. For now, Grand Blanc mourns. If you have tips, contact the FBI tip line. Stay safe, and hug your loved ones tight.
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