Photo: US President Donald Trump
A Sunday morning service turned into a scene of horror in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, when a gunman rammed his vehicle into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opened fire on worshippers, and set part of the sanctuary ablaze.
Authorities confirmed that two people were killed and at least eight others were wounded in the coordinated attack. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, was killed in a firefight with police officers who rushed to the scene.
Witnesses described a chaotic stampede as congregants scrambled to escape the flames and bullets. Firefighters battled heavy smoke and flames as law enforcement secured the area and evacuated survivors.
Grand Blanc Police Chief confirmed the fire was deliberately set, compounding the tragedy. “This was a calculated, violent assault on a place of worship,” he said.
The FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have joined local authorities in investigating the incident, which they are treating as both a mass shooting and suspected arson.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” urging unity in the face of violence. President Donald Trump said it appeared to be “yet another targeted attack on Christians” and assured that federal agencies were fully engaged in the response.
By evening, the once-quiet township was under heavy security as investigators sifted through the charred remains of the church for evidence. Officials warned that the death toll could rise if more victims are found inside the building.
