A gunman on Sunday drove a truck through the front doors of a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, before opening fire on congregants and setting the building ablaze. At least two people were killed and 10 others injured before police fatally shot the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, authorities said.
The attack began just before 10:30 a.m., when Sanford drove his pickup into the church, exited, and started shooting while hundreds were gathered for services, according to Police Chief William Renye. Officers responded within about 25 seconds of the first 911 call and confronted the shooter, exchanging gunfire before killing him minutes later. Investigators said Sanford also ignited the church, which burned and partially collapsed, complicating rescue efforts and raising concerns that more victims may be discovered in the rubble.
Officials confirmed that two of the wounded remain in critical condition. Hospitals in the area treated multiple gunshot victims as fire and emergency crews worked to extinguish the blaze, secure the structure, and evacuate survivors. More than 100 FBI agents were dispatched to assist state and local investigators, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is also involved. Police said Sanford used an assault rifle and believe he acted alone. Explosive devices were later discovered in his vehicle and at his home, prompting bomb squads and SWAT teams to search the residence.
President Donald Trump, in a statement on Truth Social, said he was briefed on the “horrendous shooting,” praised the swift federal response, and suggested the attack was targeted against Christians.
“The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn,” Trump said. “This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!”
Investigators believe the shooter deliberately ignited the church, which burned and partially collapsed, complicating efforts to determine if more victims remain inside. Authorities dispatched more than 100 FBI agents to assist local and state officials in probing the motive, which remains unknown.
FBI Director Kash Patel called the shooting “a cowardly and criminal act” and confirmed that agents were on scene assisting local authorities. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also condemned the violence, saying her “heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community” and emphasizing that attacks on places of worship are unacceptable.
According to reports on X, Sandord was an Iraqi war veteran. His political affiliation is unknown. Investigators currently believe he acted alone and used an assault rifle.
The LDS Church said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement as it monitors the condition of those injured. The incident came just one day after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the 101-year-old president of the church, though investigators have not indicated any connection. The motive for the attack remains under investigation.
