Grand Blanc Township, Mich. | September 29, 2025 – A deadly and deliberate attack at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, has left four people dead and eight others injured, authorities confirmed Monday. Investigators continue searching through the charred remains of the sanctuary after a former Marine allegedly rammed a pickup truck into the building, opened fire during a crowded Sunday service, and set the church ablaze.
The Sunday morning attack stunned the township, located roughly 60 miles north of Detroit, as residents grappled with the magnitude of the violence. Law enforcement officials have said that some attendees remain unaccounted for, raising concerns that the death toll could rise as crews continue combing the debris.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan, a neighboring community. According to Ruben Coleman, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, the incident is being treated as an “act of targeted violence.” Investigators are working to determine Sanford’s motives, including whether he had any connection to the congregation or personal grievances that led to the attack.
Sanford’s residence in Burton was searched Sunday with the assistance of a robot, though authorities have not released details on the findings. Officials have also withheld information about Sanford’s prior history, affiliations, or possible warning signs leading up to the attack.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and horror as the attack unfolded. Congregants reported that the pickup truck plowed into the sanctuary doors, followed by gunfire that forced many to flee for their lives. Flames quickly engulfed parts of the church, compounding the danger for those inside.
“It was terrifying,” one survivor told reporters. “People were screaming, trying to get out, and we didn’t know who was safe. It all happened so fast.” Emergency responders arrived quickly, providing medical attention to the injured and working to extinguish the fire.
Firefighters described the building as structurally compromised and cautioned investigators as they navigated the rubble to account for missing individuals. Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, with authorities urging anyone who may have information to come forward.
The attack comes amid heightened national concern about violence at houses of worship. In just over a month, the United States has witnessed two major attacks on churches, prompting renewed discussions about security measures, emergency preparedness, and the motivations behind targeted acts of violence.
Local officials emphasized the need for community support in the aftermath of the tragedy. Churches and civic organizations in the area have mobilized resources to provide counseling, shelter, and assistance to the families of victims and survivors.
“This is a heartbreaking and deliberate act of violence,” said a Grand Blanc Township spokesperson. “Our community is mourning the loss of life, and we are working closely with federal and state partners to understand why this happened and to ensure justice is served.”
The FBI is leading the federal investigation in partnership with local and state authorities. Investigators continue to review evidence from the church, interview witnesses, and examine Sanford’s personal history for any signs of premeditation.
As Grand Blanc Township copes with the aftermath, residents are calling for unity, resilience, and vigilance. Community leaders stressed the importance of supporting survivors and ensuring the safety of local places of worship while the investigation unfolds.