What happened in Grand Blanc
Authorities say a shooting occurred Sunday at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Official briefings indicate one person was killed and nine others were injured, with the suspect also dead. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public and that the church building was actively on fire as crews worked to contain the blaze.
Footage shared on social media showed smoke billowing from the church as firefighters battled the flames. Police described the sequence of events as a vehicle ramming the front entrance, followed by the assailant exiting the vehicle and opening fire before the building caught fire. Multiple emergency responders, including fire and police units, converged on the scene.
Authorities said there were multiple victims and that the shooter was down. The incident occurred in Grand Blanc, a town of about 7,700 people located roughly 60 miles northwest of Detroit. The report also notes that the day prior marked the death of the U.S. Mormon leader, Russell Nelson, a detail that has been referenced in initial coverage of the broader news cycle surrounding the faith community.
Victims, response, and ongoing investigation
Officials have not released specifics about the injuries or the condition of the victims. Medical teams transported those hurt to area hospitals for treatment. Police urged residents to avoid the area while investigators canvassed the church and surrounding streets for evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.
In a show of unity and concern, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the violence, saying that violence—especially at a house of worship—is unacceptable and that her thoughts were with the Grand Blanc community. President Donald Trump also commented on the incident, saying he had been briefed on the “horrendous” shooting and urged Americans to pray for the victims and their families while the investigation continues.
About the community and the church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormon church, has a presence in Michigan, including in and around Grand Blanc. The incident in Grand Blanc adds to a difficult moment for a faith community already navigating a period of mourning after the death of Nelson. Local officials emphasised safety and asked residents to respect the ongoing investigation.
What comes next
As investigators compile facts, authorities promised to release additional details as they become available. The focus remains on confirming the identities of those affected, understanding the motive, and ensuring the community’s safety in the wake of this traumatic event. More updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and officials review evidence from the scene.
