Death Toll Rises to Four After Michigan Church Shooting and Fire
Four people have died and eight others were injured after a gunman drove a vehicle into a Michigan church, opened fire, and set the building on fire. The attack occurred at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, a town northwest of Detroit, during a Sunday service attended by hundreds.
The suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, was later shot and killed by police in the church parking lot, eight minutes after the shooting began. Authorities described the incident as a targeted act of violence, though the motive remains unknown. Two victims died from gunshot wounds, while the other two were found dead after the fire.
Investigators are reviewing Sanford’s property and phone records, with the FBI leading the probe. Officials confirmed that he used an accelerant, likely gasoline, to ignite the blaze. Church members were praised for acting quickly to protect children during the attack.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and other leaders condemned the violence, stressing that attacks on places of worship are unacceptable. The church offered prayers for peace and healing for everyone affected.
