A tragic shooting occurred on September 28, 2025, at a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, leaving at least four people dead and eight others injured. The suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, died after being shot by police officers who arrived eight minutes following the emergency call.
Hundreds of people were inside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for a Sunday service when the attack took place. Sanford drove a vehicle into the church’s front doors, exited the vehicle, and opened fire with an assault rifle. Investigators believe that Sanford also set the church on fire using gasoline. As of now, the full extent of the damage has not been confirmed, but authorities have stated that the church has been deemed a “total loss” due to the fire.
Police initially confirmed that one of the injured is in critical condition, while the others are stable. All victims were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities have not yet determined a clear motive behind the shooting, and are focusing their efforts on examining the suspect’s home and phone records.
The community is devastated by the loss, with reports of people nearby hearing screams and witnessing the horrifying events unfold. One local woman described the shock of losing friends and teaching children at the church on Sundays, who were among those hurt in the attack.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the violence, expressing heartbreak for the Grand Blanc community, while President Donald Trump also condemned the attack, labeling it “horrendous.” The FBI has joined the investigation, offering support to local law enforcement in the search for a motive behind the attack.
This incident comes just one day after the passing of the 101-year-old Mormon leader, Russell Nelson. The shooting has left many questions unanswered as the investigation continues.
