What happened in Grand Blanc
A mass shooting and fire disrupted a Sunday service at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Police say the suspect drove a vehicle through the church doors during a service attended by hundreds, then opened fire with an automatic weapon. Shortly after, a fire began inside the building, quickly growing into a major blaze. The shooter was killed by responding officers at the scene. Authorities later found a suspicious object near the church and brought in a bomb squad to examine it as part of the ongoing investigation.
Casualties and conditions
Initial reports confirmed at least two fatalities and eight injuries. Seven of the wounded were reported to be in stable condition, with one person in critical condition. CNN cited an unnamed source suggesting that several of the injured were children. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims pending notifications to families.
About the suspect
The gunman has been identified by police as Thomas Jacob Sanford, described as a man in his 40s from the nearby city of Burton. Sanford was killed by police at the scene. Fox2 reported, citing sources, that Sanford was a Marine veteran who served in Iraq and that he had a wife and a son. Investigators have not publicly stated a motive, and officials say the inquiry is ongoing.
Fire response and potential additional victims
Officials said the blaze rapidly intensified, complicating rescue efforts and search operations inside the church. Police warned that there could be more victims inside the burning building, and firefighters worked to control the flames and assess the interior. The combination of gun violence and an ensuing fire has left the sanctuary severely damaged and the church’s interior largely inaccessible as investigators continue their work.
Investigation and security notes
In addition to the bomb-squad examination, investigators have stressed that the case remains active and fluid. The incident has raised questions about security arrangements at houses of worship in the region and across the United States, with authorities urging the public to await official updates as the investigation unfolds.
Reactions from officials
President Donald Trump commented on Truth Social that he had been informed of the shooting and described it as appearing to be “a targeted attack against Christians” in the United States, calling for an end to what he labeled a violence epidemic. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement condemning the violence, stressing that violence anywhere — especially at a place of worship — is unacceptable. The FBI has confirmed agents are on the scene to assist local authorities with the investigation, and local and state officials are coordinating ongoing response efforts for those affected.
What we know and what comes next
Authorities continue to piece together the sequence of events, confirm the identities of all victims, and determine a possible motive for the attack. The investigation involves local police, state authorities, and federal agencies, with updates expected as more information becomes available. In the meantime, neighbors describe the church as a community hub, and the incident has stunned a community that values safety and faith as pillars of daily life.
