On Sunday, September 28, 2025, tragedy struck Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, when a violent attack unfolded during a church service. A gunman drove his truck into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building, opened fire on worshippers, and set the building on fire. The suspect was later killed by responding officers, ending what police have described as a deadly and targeted act of violence.

As of Monday morning, officials confirmed that five people died, including the suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, Michigan. Among the victims, two died from gunshot wounds, while two others appear to have been trapped by the flames that engulfed the building. A total of eight people were injured in the assault, one critically, though most are now reported to be in stable condition.

The attack began around 10:25 a.m. as congregants gathered for Sunday service at the church on McCandlish Road. Witnesses said the suspect rammed his Chevy Silverado truck, decorated with two American flags, through the front doors of the building. Exiting the truck, he opened fire with an assault rifle, sending hundreds of worshippers fleeing in panic.

Shortly after the gunfire erupted, flames spread through the building. Investigators believe the suspect used an accelerant such as gasoline to set the fire. A bomb squad later recovered several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) from the suspect’s truck, suggesting the possibility of an even larger planned attack.

Accounts from survivors describe harrowing scenes of bravery amid chaos. Some congregants reportedly shielded children with their bodies to protect them from gunfire. Others rushed to guide people to exits through smoke and flames.

Police identified the gunman as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old former U.S. Marine who served in Iraq between 2007 and 2008. Authorities have not determined a motive but are treating the incident as an “act of targeted violence.”

The FBI is leading the investigation, reviewing Sanford’s home, online activity, and digital devices for possible connections to extremist groups or prior threats. While the immediate threat at the Grand Blanc church has ended, law enforcement responded to additional bomb threats at other Michigan churches on Sunday evening. All were cleared, though officials remain on high alert.

The devastating attack has deeply shaken the Grand Blanc community. Schools were closed on Monday as residents grieved and processed the trauma.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement condemning the violence, offering prayers to the victims and their families, and promising full state support. President Donald Trump also released a statement denouncing the attack and commending first responders for their swift action.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed profound sorrow, extending condolences and gratitude for the outpouring of support from across the nation. A hotline has been set up for family reunification, and counseling services will be available to congregants and community members in the coming days.

This incident marks one of the most violent church attacks in Michigan’s history, leaving behind a community grappling with grief, fear, and unanswered questions. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant as the investigation continues.