Chaos and bloodshed struck the chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon Church) in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, on Sunday morning, when an armed 40-year-old man rammed the building with a truck during service, then opened fire on hundreds of people gathered inside.
The attack and victims
The attack occurred at about 10:25 a.m. on Sunday, September 28. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye identified the suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old former U.S. Marine from nearby Burton.
MAP OF THE ATTACK: A sketch shows the church and the direction from which the killer came.
The attacker drove his vehicle into the chapel and then opened fire on those present.
The church was also set on fire; authorities believe the suspect deliberately started the blaze.
At least two people attending the service died as a result of the attack.
One of the nine people treated at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital later died from gunshot wounds, confirming the death toll had risen to at least three (including two victims and the attacker).
Eight people were injured and are being treated at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital, with several victims in critical condition.
Police Chief Renye stated: “We believe we will find more victims,” suggesting that more people may have been trapped inside and perished in the flames.
Police response and investigation
The suspect, Sanford, was killed by authorities at 10:33 a.m., just minutes after the attack began. Renye praised two trained officers – one from the municipal police and one from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources – for reacting quickly and neutralizing the suspect in the church parking lot.
The motive for the violence remains unknown. Authorities are in the process of obtaining a warrant to search Sanford’s home and plan to examine electronic devices for clues.
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that the FBI immediately responded and will lead the federal investigation, suggesting the attack “looks like yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States.”
Community reaction
Survivors were taken to the nearby NCG Trillium movie theater for “family reunification and questioning.”
Phillip Cotter, a resident of Clio and church member, expressed his grief at the scene: “I know everyone who was there… Evil is alive, it is active.” Stephanie Giddings, another church member, echoed the sentiment, stating she was in “complete unbelievable shock and heartbroken.”
Doug Andersen, spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, thanked first responders and issued a statement: “In times of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries for peacemaking, prayer, and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
Families and friends trying to locate loved ones who were in the church at the time of the shooting and fire can obtain information by calling 248-705-7352.
MORE TOPICS:
US-ISRAEL CONFLICT LOOMS: Trump Unveils Gaza Peace Plan, Netanyahu Vows to Continue War
FINNISH BASKETBALL WONDER ARRIVES IN BELGRADE: Mika Muurinen Takes Partizan Jersey (PHOTO)
Source:Detroit Free Press Foto: Julie J, @Malkowski6April / AP)