Michigan Church Shooting: Investigation Underway After Deadly Attack
GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, MI – Authorities are continuing their investigation into a devastating attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, where a gunman killed at least four people and injured eight others during a Sunday morning service. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former U.S. Marine, was killed by law enforcement at the scene just minutes after the violence erupted on September 28, 2025. The FBI is leading the probe, classifying the incident as an “act of targeted violence” as investigators work to uncover a motive.
The Devastating Attack Unfolds
On Sunday morning, around 10:25 a.m., hundreds of congregants were attending services at the church when the tragedy struck. Thomas Jacob Sanford allegedly drove his pickup truck through the main entrance of the building, immediately creating chaos and panic. After crashing into the church, Sanford exited his vehicle and began firing an assault rifle at those inside. As if the gunfire were not enough, authorities also believe Sanford deliberately set the church ablaze, with gasoline suspected as the accelerant, causing smoke to billow and the building to partially collapse.
Law enforcement officers responded within moments of the 911 call. A Grand Blanc Township police officer and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer confronted Sanford in the church parking lot, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. Sanford was fatally shot by officers at approximately 10:33 a.m., just eight minutes after the initial attack began.
Suspect Identified: A Former Marine’s Violent Path
Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old resident of nearby Burton, Michigan, was identified as the sole suspect in the deadly assault. Military records indicate he served in the U.S. Marines from 2004 to 2008, including a deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom from August 2007 to March 2008, where he served as an automotive mechanic and vehicle recovery operator, reaching the rank of sergeant. Online photos and social media suggest he was a father and had previously displayed a “Trump” political sign outside his home and a “Make Liberals Cry Again” t-shirt, though his specific political leanings and affiliations remain under investigation, particularly given Michigan’s open primary system.
Neighbors described Sanford as a “good neighbor” who occasionally helped with plowing driveways. However, one report indicated that a local council candidate spoke with Sanford less than a week before the shooting, during which Sanford allegedly “went on a tirade” against the LDS church, calling Mormons “the antichrist,” though he also appeared friendly and non-violent at the time.
The Investigation: ‘Targeted Violence’ and the Search for Motive
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken the lead in the investigation, treating the incident as an “act of targeted violence”. Reuben Coleman, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, emphasized the bureau’s commitment to uncovering the facts, circumstances, and motives behind the tragedy.
Investigators are meticulously examining evidence collected from the scene, including three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found inside Sanford’s pickup truck, and are continuing to interview over 100 victims and witnesses. Efforts are also underway to execute search warrants on Sanford’s residence and analyze his digital records in the hope of shedding light on his state of mind and potential motivations. While one White House official suggested Sanford “hated” Mormons, authorities have not publicly disclosed a definitive motive.
Victims and Community Impact
Authorities have confirmed that at least four individuals lost their lives in the attack, with eight others sustaining injuries. One victim was reported in critical condition, while the rest were listed as stable. Search teams have been working through the debris of the partially collapsed church, and officials have indicated that more victims may still be discovered. The Grand Blanc community, a suburb of Flint, is grappling with the profound loss and the shock of the violence.
“Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection,” stated a spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, expressing prayers for peace and healing for all involved. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff through Friday in honor of the victims.
Broader Context and Trending Concerns
The Michigan church shooting is the latest in a series of violent attacks on houses of worship across the United States in recent years, bringing increased attention and concern to the safety of religious communities. This incident occurred during a particularly violent weekend nationally, which also saw other mass shootings in North Carolina and Texas. The attack has once again placed the issue of gun violence and the protection of faith-based institutions in the national spotlight. Discussions about potential motives and the shooter’s background continue to be a major news focus.
The FBI has urged anyone with information to contact them at 1-800-225-5324 or submit a tip via tips.fbi.gov. This developing story remains a top priority for law enforcement.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation continues, the community braces for further details and seeks to heal from the tragedy. The full scope of the impact, both in terms of casualties and the underlying motives, will likely become clearer in the coming days and weeks, with the FBI committed to a thorough and comprehensive inquiry into this act of targeted violence.
