GRAND BLANC, Mich. — Authorities have officially identified the suspect in Sunday morning’s horrific mass shooting and arson at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan.
Suspect’s Residence and Vehicle Tied to Attack
Law enforcement sources confirmed that officers and investigators were stationed outside a residence on Atherton Road in Burton, linked to Sanford through public property records. The home at 4156 Atherton Road was cordoned off as investigators searched for evidence connected to the attack.
Records also show Sanford owned a 2008 GMC Sierra pickup truck, the same type of vehicle witnesses reported seeing at the church on the morning of the assault. The truck, bearing veteran license plates, was used as a battering ram to crash through the church entrance before Sanford exited and began firing.
The Attack Inside the Church
The incident unfolded during Sunday morning worship at the Grand Blanc LDS Church, located at 4285 McCandlish Road.
Authorities say Sanford first drove his truck into the building’s front doors, then emerged with an assault-style rifle, opening fire on parishioners inside. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as worshippers scrambled for cover while Sanford fired multiple rounds.
At least 10 people were shot in the attack. Officials confirmed two fatalities, including one victim who succumbed to injuries after being transported to a hospital. Police cautioned that the death toll could rise as search teams continue combing through the burned church structure. Witnesses outside the building reported seeing at least two elderly men lying on the ground after being struck by gunfire.
Fire and Explosive Concerns
Following the shooting, authorities say Sanford set the church ablaze. Video captured from the scene shows flames consuming large portions of the building as smoke billowed into the air.
Scanner traffic from Grand Blanc police reported a beeping noise coming from Sanford’s truck, sparking fears of an improvised explosive device (IED). Bomb squad units were dispatched to investigate a suspicious item believed to be an explosive on church property. First responders were ordered to keep clear of the vehicle until the area was declared safe.
Drone footage from the aftermath showed the church roof partially collapsed as firefighters battled the blaze well into the afternoon.
Police Response and Suspect’s Death
Authorities estimate that hundreds of parishioners were present at the church when the attack began. Multiple victims remain unaccounted for, and emergency crews are continuing to assess the scene for additional casualties.
In a tense and rapid response, law enforcement confronted Sanford outside the burning structure. He was shot and killed by police officers, ending the immediate threat.
At least 15 to 20 emergency and law enforcement vehicles, including bomb squad units, swarmed the area along South Saginaw Road. Police have since sealed off the perimeter as the investigation continues.
Community in Shock
The Grand Blanc community remains in shock as details continue to emerge about Sanford and his motives. While authorities have not released further information about why he targeted the church, residents and parishioners are reeling from the scale of the violence.
Officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing, with local, state, and federal agencies assisting in both the criminal probe and recovery efforts at the church site.