2025-09-30 00:00:55.73

In Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, a former Marine, Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, initiated a deadly attack on a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel. On Sunday, Sanford smashed his pickup truck into the crowded sanctuary, then began shooting and setting the building on fire. The chaotic incident resulted in four deaths and eight gunshot wounds to victims aged 6 to 78, all of whom are expected to recover. Additionally, two people were treated for smoke inhalation. Heroic actions by church members and hospital employees present helped pull others to safety from the smoke-filled, burning building. The attacker, Sanford, was killed during an exchange of gunfire with a Grand Blanc police officer and a state conservation officer. Investigators, including the FBI and ATF, are focusing on his motive, which the White House press secretary suggested was hatred for the Mormon faith. Sanford, from the neighboring town of Burton, served four years in the Marine Corps, including a deployment to Iraq. Authorities confirmed he used gas and explosive devices to ignite the extensive fire, which gutted nearly the entire church. The attack is considered an 'act of targeted violence' and marks the second assault on an American church in just over a month. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and church leaders expressed shock and condolences, emphasizing the need for answers in the wake of the tragedy.