GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. — What began as a peaceful Sunday service in a tight-knit Michigan community ended in horror when a gunman carried out a violent attack, leaving at least four people dead and several others injured. Authorities say the suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, drove his truck into the church, opened fire on worshippers, and then set the building ablaze before being fatally shot by responding officers.
A Day of Worship Shattered by Violence
According to witnesses, the congregation had just begun their Sunday service when chaos erupted. Around mid-morning, Sanford allegedly rammed his pickup truck into the church building, creating confusion and panic. Moments later, he reportedly entered the sanctuary armed with a firearm and began shooting at churchgoers.
Law enforcement confirmed that two victims died from gunshot wounds, while two others were discovered deceased inside the fire-damaged structure. At least eight others were transported to area hospitals with varying injuries, some in critical condition.
The Suspect: A Troubled Background
Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan, was identified as the gunman. His home address is listed as 4156 E Atherton Rd, Burton, MI, where a Google Street View image from June 2025 shows a blue Trump campaign sign affixed to a stop sign post at the edge of his driveway. The meaning of the display remains unclear but has since drawn public attention.
In conversations with neighbors and community members, Sanford was known to harbor strong negative views toward the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
A Chilling Encounter With a Candidate
A Burton City Council candidate, Kris Johns, says he unknowingly spoke with Sanford just days before the attack. In an interview with journalist Dave Bondy, Johns described a canvassing encounter that began friendly but turned unsettling when Sanford started talking about religion.
“I’m running for city council and I was canvassing,” Johns said. “I came across a gentleman who was very friendly. We just started to talk, and after a short while the conversation went to the Church of Latter-day Saints. He made the position multiple times that Mormons are the anti-Christ.”
According to Johns, Sanford told him he had once lived in Utah, had a relationship with a woman who belonged to the church, and even removed tattoos to take part in its ceremonies.
“He was extremely nice at first,” Johns recalled. “He even talked about his child who had a serious medical concern. But when the conversation turned to religion, I just wanted to get off the door and away from him.”
Johns said Sanford’s words were intense but not threatening. “It wasn’t anything I thought I needed to call police about. You hear all kinds of views these days. Nothing about it suggested he was going to hurt anyone.”
Days later, Johns said he was stunned to see Sanford’s face in news reports of the Grand Blanc Township shooting.
“I saw his picture and I was in shock,” Johns said. “It’s insane. My daughter’s therapist’s office is right down the road. I just couldn’t believe it.”
Attack on the Church
Authorities said Sanford drove his truck through the front entrance of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township during morning services, where hundreds of worshippers — including children — were gathered. He then opened fire on the congregation before setting parts of the building on fire.
Two worshippers were killed by gunfire, while two others were found dead inside the burned structure. Eight more were injured in the attack.
Police arrived within seconds of 911 calls. Sanford exchanged gunfire with officers and was shot and killed at the scene.
Community in Mourning
The violence has left the Grand Blanc Township community devastated. Vigils and prayer gatherings are already being organized as residents come together to grieve.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our community. A place of worship—a place of peace—was violated in the worst possible way,” a township official said. “We ask for prayers for the victims, their families, and everyone affected by this senseless act.”
Johns, reflecting on his brief but chilling encounter with Sanford, said his heart is with the victims and their families.
“My heart breaks for everyone involved,” Johns said. “We all need to be praying for the victims, for law enforcement, and for our community.”
Investigation Ongoing
Michigan State Police, FBI agents, and fire investigators are working alongside local authorities to piece together Sanford’s motive. His political displays, anti-Mormon comments, and past experiences are all being reviewed as part of the ongoing probe.
Forensic teams remain on-site at the church, and officials have confirmed both homicide and arson investigations are underway.
As the community searches for answers, leaders are emphasizing unity and support. Counselors, clergy, and emergency services are working to help survivors and grieving families heal from the trauma.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media