Tragedy at Michigan LDS Church: Five Dead, Shooter Identified as Iraq War Veteran

September 28,2025 - GRAND BLANC, MI - A Sunday morning worship service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township turned into a scene of horror as a gunman rammed his truck into the chapel, opened fire on congregants, and set the building ablaze. Authorities have confirmed five fatalities, including the shooter, and at least eight others hospitalized.

At 9:25 a.m. CDT police received reports of a vehicle crashing into the church.

9:26 a.m.: Officers arrived on scene within seconds. They quickly engaged the shooter.

9:33 a.m.: The suspect was shot and killed by police after a brief exchange of gunfire.

The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, age 40, of Burton, Michigan, was a U.S. Marine veteran who served in Iraq from 2004 to 2008.

Sanford apparently drove a truck adorned with American flags into the church, then opened fire with an assault rifle.

He reportedly used gasoline to ignite the building, and improvised explosive devices were found at the scene.

Two victims were found dead inside the church after the fire was extinguished. Others were shot while trying to flee.

Church and Community Response.

"FBI personnel are responding to Grand Blanc, MI to provide any requested support necessary," said FBI assistant director Dan Bongino.

Doug Andersen, spokesperson for the LDS Church, issued a statement:

"Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved."

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the attack "unacceptable" and expressed heartbreak for the Grand Blanc community.

"Today's shooting in Michigan is beyond horrific," said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama). "My prayers are with the victims' families and the entire Grand Blanc community."

"I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan," said President Donald J. Trump. "The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!"

Context and Concerns

The shooting occurred one day after the death of LDS Church President and Prophet Russell M. Nelson, ay age 101. A memorial service was underway when the attack began. Investigators have not yet identified a motive, but the FBI is treating the incident as a targeted act of violence.

What Comes Next

Survivors were taken to a local cinema for reunification and questioning.

Bomb squads and drones were deployed to the suspect's home amid fears of further threats.

Law enforcement continues to search the church for additional victims and evidence.