Another tragic mass shooting has once again rocked the United States, claiming at least five lives—including the gunman—and leaving more than eight others injured, according to law enforcement officials. The devastating incident unfolded at a Mormon church in Michigan, where the attacker also set a massive fire, causing extensive damage and complicating rescue efforts.
The attack occurred shortly after 10:25 a.m. on Sunday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Within minutes, harrowing images and videos appeared on social media, showing thick black smoke billowing from the roof as flames consumed much of the building, leaving behind a scene of destruction and heartbreak.
Authorities have identified the gunman as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former Marine. Sanford was fatally shot by responding officers after a rapid response to the scene. Witnesses reported that Sanford drove a vehicle adorned with two American flags straight through the church’s front doors before stepping out and opening fire on congregants. Armed with an assault rifle, he unleashed multiple rounds, throwing the service into chaos and panic.
Sanford’s military record includes four years of service with the U.S. Marine Corps, including a deployment to Iraq from 2004 to 2008. Following the shooting, he reportedly ignited a fire inside the church using gasoline, further endangering lives and complicating rescue operations. James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Detroit Field Division, confirmed the fire was intentionally set.
Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, eventually bringing it under control, but the church suffered severe structural damage. Authorities fear additional victims may still be trapped within the rubble. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye reported that two more bodies were recovered late Sunday evening, adding to the two already confirmed dead from gunshot wounds.
Chief Renye praised the rapid response of law enforcement, noting officers arrived within 30 seconds of the 911 call. Despite the quick arrival, multiple victims were injured. Ten individuals suffering from gunshot wounds were transported to local hospitals, and at least one has since died. Police have withheld the identities of the victims pending family notifications.
In the aftermath, personal details about Sanford have emerged. According to the New York Post, he was a husband and father of a young son diagnosed with congenital hyperinsulinism, a rare disorder causing dangerously low blood sugar. A GoFundMe set up for the child’s medical needs has raised roughly $3,000 from generous donors in the community.
The Grand Blanc Township community is now grappling with shock, grief, and disbelief. Local leaders are urging calm and unity, encouraging residents to support one another. Vigils and memorial services are being planned to honor the victims and offer a space for collective mourning.
Law enforcement continues to investigate Sanford’s motives, mental health history, and potential warning signs, seeking to understand what led to this deadly rampage. Authorities have promised to keep the public informed while respecting the privacy of victims and families.
Meanwhile, emergency responders, social workers, and community organizations are mobilizing to assist those affected, providing counseling, temporary housing for displaced congregants, and financial support for families facing unexpected hardships.
This tragedy has reignited national conversations on gun control, mental health care, and safety measures in places of worship and public spaces. Amid the sorrow, the resilience and compassion of the Grand Blanc Township community are evident. Neighbors are coming together, exemplifying the strength and solidarity that can emerge even in the darkest moments. While the path to healing will be long, there is hope that this tragedy will foster greater awareness, understanding, and preventive action in the future.
