Grand Blanc, Michigan, Sept. 29, 2025 — A quiet Sunday morning at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township quickly turned into a scene of horror during a Michigan church shooting, when a gunman drove his vehicle into the chapel, opened fire on worshippers, and set the building ablaze.
The attacker, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a Marine Corps veteran from nearby Burton, acted alone, authorities said. Police confirmed that at least four people were killed, including the shooter, and eight others were injured, with several still unaccounted for as the FBI investigates this Michigan church shooting.
Witnesses described chaos and panic as families, elderly members, and children tried to escape the rapidly spreading fire and gunfire. Some parishioners courageously helped others to safety, shielding children and moving the injured to secure areas. Firefighters and first responders arrived quickly and worked for hours to extinguish the blaze, while investigators combed through the debris for victims and evidence.
Authorities are examining Sanford’s motive, with early reports suggesting possible anti-Mormon sentiment, though the investigation is ongoing. The chapel, a once-beloved place of worship, has been declared a total loss. The local community is in mourning, grappling with the trauma and devastation left by this tragic Michigan church shooting.
A Peaceful Morning Turns Deadly
Parishioners had gathered for the church’s monthly “fast Sunday,” a day when members are encouraged to donate to those in need and spend time in reflection. Families, elderly members, and children attended the service, unaware of the danger that awaited them.
According to witnesses, the first signs of the attack came with a loud crash. Paula, a long-time church member, recalled, “We heard a big bang, and the doors flew open.” A pickup truck, bearing two American flags in its bed, had been driven straight into the chapel’s front doors.
The driver, later identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford from nearby Burton, Michigan, then exited the vehicle with an assault rifle and began firing at those inside. In addition to the gunfire, Sanford ignited a fire inside the building, sending thick black smoke into the sky and forcing worshippers to flee.
Emergency Response and Shootout
Grand Blanc Township police responded within 30 seconds of the initial 911 call. Officers pursued Sanford as he fled the scene and engaged in a shootout in the church parking lot. Eight minutes after their arrival, Sanford was killed. Officials confirmed he acted alone.
“The gunman used an assault rifle and deliberately started a fire,” Police Chief William Renye said. Evidence of suspected explosive devices was also found at the scene, though investigators are still determining their use.
Firefighters battled the blaze for hours as residents and church members watched from behind police cordons. Nearby nurses even left a picket line to assist in the rescue efforts. “Human lives matter more than our labor dispute,” said Teamsters Local 332 President Dan Glass, describing the heroic efforts of the community.
Who Was the Suspect?
Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, lived in Burton, a city neighboring Grand Blanc. Friends described him as a “fun-loving family man” but admitted he had expressed troubling views about certain groups in the days leading up to the attack. Just 48 hours before the shooting, Sanford allegedly pretended to threaten friends and their family with his truck, a bizarre and alarming encounter that left them shaken.
Sanford was a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq. Social media posts show him wearing Marine uniforms and memorabilia, indicating a strong military background. He was married and had a son. Authorities are still investigating whether Sanford had any prior criminal record or mental health issues.
Witness Accounts
The scenes described by survivors were chaotic and terrifying. Brian Taylor, a parishioner, said, “We started rushing out to go help, and as soon as I saw the American flags on the truck, and somebody yelled it was on purpose, I tried to get people out of the area.”
Paula added, “We were trying to help an elderly woman into her car when the gunman fired. Everyone was running for their lives, trying to protect children and the elderly.”
Cindy Walsh, a resident living nearby, watched as thick black smoke rose from the chapel. “I’m shaken. I’ve seen a change in this world. There’s so much hate in this world. I just don’t understand it,” she said.
The Aftermath
The chapel itself is now a total loss. Pews and furniture have been replaced by debris, and the tall white spire that once stood as a symbol of hope is gone. Authorities continue to search for additional victims, combing through the rubble to ensure everyone has been accounted for.
Church members gathered at a nearby theater to reunite and console one another. The grief in the community is immense. “It’s devastating to know I lost friends,” Paula said. The tragedy comes just a day after the death of Church President Russell M. Nelson, adding to the sense of mourning among members.
Broader Context
Unfortunately, this attack is part of a disturbing trend of violence targeting houses of worship in the United States. From a Catholic church in Minneapolis to a synagogue in Pittsburgh and a Sikh temple in Wisconsin, religious communities have increasingly been the sites of violent acts. Experts warn that such attacks not only cause immediate physical harm but also shake the sense of safety and community that places of worship traditionally provide.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities, including the FBI, are actively investigating the attack. Search warrants are being executed at Sanford’s residence and family homes. Investigators are examining his digital footprint, social connections, and possible motives. Early reports suggest the attack may have been driven by hatred toward members of the Mormon faith, but officials are still working to confirm the motive.
Police Chief Renye emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. “We are working tirelessly to find additional bodies and understand how and why this happened,” he said. Officials have urged the public to remain calm while they gather more information.
Community Support and Recovery
In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors and church members have rallied together to support victims and their families. Counseling services are being offered to help those affected cope with the trauma. Local leaders have praised the bravery of first responders and community members who risked their safety to protect others.
As the community begins to process the devastating events, there is also a call for reflection on the broader issues of gun violence and safety in public spaces. The Grand Blanc attack highlights the urgent need for awareness, preparedness, and community solidarity in the face of such tragedies.
What We Know So Far
- Four people confirmed dead, including the shooter.
- Eight injured, with some still unaccounted for.
- Shooter: Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, Burton, Michigan, Marine veteran.
- Method: Vehicle rammed into chapel, shooting with assault rifle, deliberate fire.
- Investigation ongoing; motive under review, suspected anti-Mormon sentiment.
- Chapel declared a total loss; community in mourning.
Q&A
Q1. Where did the attack occur?
At the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan.
Q2. Who was the shooter?
Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, a Marine veteran from Burton, Michigan.
Q3. How many casualties?
At least four dead, including the shooter, eight injured, and some still unaccounted for.
Q4. How did the attack happen?
Sanford drove a truck into the church, opened fire, and started a fire inside the building.
Q5. What is the motive?
Authorities are investigating. Early reports suggest Sanford may have targeted members of the Mormon faith.
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