Gunman Kills 4, Injures 8 at Michigan Church Before Being Fatally Shot by Police
Authorities investigate targeted act of violence after Mormon church set ablaze during Sunday service.
GRAND BLANC, Mich. — A former U.S. Marine drove a pickup truck into a packed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building outside Flint Sunday morning, opened fire on worshippers, and set the church ablaze in a violent rampage that left four dead and eight injured, according to reporting from the AP. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, was fatally shot by police minutes later.
The attack occurred around 10:25 a.m., when hundreds were gathered for service. Authorities say Sanford raised two American flags in his truck bed before launching the assault. Gasoline was reportedly used to ignite the fire, and while explosive devices were found, it's unclear whether they were detonated.
Worshippers acted swiftly to protect children as flames and smoke engulfed the building. Two bodies were recovered in the charred debris by Sunday evening, and officials warned the death toll could rise as the search continued. One victim remained in critical condition, while seven others were reported stable.
Police Chief William Renye said officers arrived within 30 seconds of the 911 call and engaged the shooter in a firefight about eight minutes later, resulting in his death. The FBI is treating the incident as a targeted act of violence.
Following the attack, bomb threats were reported at other area churches, though no devices were found. President Donald Trump responded to the shooting in a post on Truth Social, saying:
"I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is a still a lot to learn. 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!"
The investigation remains ongoing.
