At least four people died and eight others suffered injuries in a shocking mass shooting and fire at a chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly called the Mormon Church, in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday morning. Authorities identified the suspect as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former U.S. Marine and Iraq war veteran, who deliberately set the building ablaze before exchanging gunfire with law enforcement officers, resulting in his death.
The attack occurred during Sunday services, while hundreds of congregants, including children, attended. Police received a call at 10:25 a.m. reporting that a man had driven a vehicle into the building. Sanford then opened fire with an assault rifle, according to Grand Blanc Township police chief William Renye. “The suspect fired several rounds at individuals inside the church,” Renye said. “We also believe he set a fire that quickly grew into a large blaze.”
Law enforcement officers responded within minutes and immediately engaged Sanford in the church parking lot. They killed him at 10:33 a.m., just eight minutes after the shooting began. During the investigation, police discovered three improvised explosive devices inside Sanford’s vehicle. Consequently, the FBI took the lead in the investigation and described the incident as “an act of targeted violence.”
The fire caused significant structural damage and partially collapsed the chapel. Meanwhile, investigators continue searching the debris for additional victims. Survivors described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. Paul Kirby, a church member, told local media, “It’ll hit me later tonight just how close I was to possibly dying,” recalling how congregants ran to escape flames and smoke while helping one another.
Thomas Jacob Sanford served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, including a deployment to al-Fallujah, Iraq. He left the service as a sergeant. After returning to Michigan, Sanford lived in Burton, worked as a truck operator, and raised a son, Brantlee, who was born with hyperinsulinism, a rare medical condition affecting insulin production. Furthermore, social media posts show Sanford frequently shared photos of hunting and ice fishing trips.
The attack occurred just one day after the death of church president Russell M. Nelson at age 101. Consequently, church officials expressed grief over the tragedy and highlighted the sanctity of worship spaces. “Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer, and connection,” the church said. “We pray for peace and healing for all involved.” Leaders from Salt Lake City plan to provide counseling and support to affected families in Grand Blanc.
Grand Blanc, a small township of roughly 7,700 residents located about 60 miles northwest of Detroit, reacted in shock. Local officials coordinated with federal agencies to secure the area and provide immediate assistance to victims and their families.
This shooting represents the 324th mass shooting in the United States in 2025, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Moreover, it marked the third mass shooting in a single day, following incidents in Southport, North Carolina, and Eagle Pass, Texas. In an unusual coincidence, the North Carolina suspect, like Sanford, was a 40-year-old Marine veteran who had served in Iraq. That attack killed three people and injured five others.
Authorities emphasized that the discovery of explosive devices in Sanford’s vehicle indicates premeditation. Investigators continue examining his background, social media activity, and potential motives, while also coordinating with federal partners to prevent further threats. Therefore, law enforcement agencies advise the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
The Grand Blanc community quickly mobilized to support those affected. Congregants and local residents helped families displaced by the fire, while providing emotional support to survivors. Additionally, nearby churches and community centers organized resources, including temporary shelter, counseling, and financial assistance. Police increased patrols in surrounding neighborhoods to ensure safety.
Experts say attacks on houses of worship are especially devastating because they violate spaces intended for peace, prayer, and community. Dr. Karen Mitchell, a criminologist specializing in mass violence, said, “Incidents like this aim to shock and terrify communities. Rapid response and coordinated victim support prevent long-term trauma.”
Investigators continue working to determine Sanford’s plans and whether others were involved. Furthermore, the deliberate fire and discovery of explosives underscore the seriousness of the threat. Officials are reviewing potential security measures at public and religious institutions to reduce the risk of similar attacks in the future.
Survivors are coming together to support one another in the wake of the attack. Many have shared their experiences on social media, highlighting acts of courage and community solidarity amid tragedy. Meanwhile, police and emergency responders continue to assess the building and surrounding area to ensure no hazards remain.
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The Grand Blanc shooting highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in the United States. It also underscores the challenges law enforcement and communities face in protecting vulnerable spaces, including places of worship, from attacks by armed individuals. Local, state, and federal authorities are working to restore safety and provide healing resources to the affected community.