A tragic attack at a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, left four people dead on Sunday. The suspect drove his vehicle through the main entrance of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints during a Sunday service, then emerged with an assault rifle and opened fire. He also set the building on fire before police responded.
Authorities identified the suspect as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former US Marine residing near Burton. Officials said Sanford deliberately set the church ablaze, sending smoke and flames billowing across the area.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said, &ldquo;We do believe that we will find additional victims once we access areas affected by the fire.&rdquo; Hundreds of people were inside the church at the time of the attack.
Police responded to the 911 call within 30 seconds and neutralized the suspect eight minutes later. Two law enforcement officers, including one from the state Department of Natural Resources, pursued Sanford and engaged in gunfire.
The FBI, leading the investigation, called the incident an &ldquo;act of targeted violence.&rdquo; Reuben Coleman, Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Detroit, said, &ldquo;This act of violence has no place in our state or anywhere else in our country. We are committed to determining the facts, circumstances, and motives behind this tragedy.&rdquo;
Among the injured, one person is in critical condition while seven others remain stable. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.
President Donald Trump commented on the incident, stating,&nbsp;&ldquo;This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. PRAY for the victims and their families."

Michigan Church Attack: 4 Dead, Shooter Killed

Michigan church attack turns deadly; authorities kill suspect on site

Michigan Church Attack: 4 Dead, Shooter Killed

Michigan church attack turns deadly; authorities kill suspect on site

September 29, 2025 | 16:16 IST