Grand Blanc, Michigan — Authorities have identified the suspect behind Sunday’s mass shooting and arson at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan.
Police confirmed that investigators have cordoned off a residence on Atherton Road in Burton, listed in public records as belonging to Sanford. The property at 4156 Atherton Road is being searched for evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
Records also show that Sanford owned a 2008 GMC Sierra, matching the truck seen at the church during the attack. The vehicle, bearing veteran license plates, was driven into the church’s entrance before Sanford exited and began shooting.
Attack at Morning Service
The violence unfolded during Sunday morning worship at the Grand Blanc LDS Church, 4285 McCandlish Road.
According to authorities, Sanford rammed his truck through the front doors, then opened fire inside with an assault-style rifle, targeting parishioners.
At least 10 people were shot, and two fatalities have been confirmed so far, including one victim who later died at the hospital. Witnesses reported seeing elderly members lying injured outside the church.
Following the shooting, Sanford allegedly set the building on fire. Drone and ground footage show the structure heavily damaged, with parts of the roof collapsed as firefighters battled the flames.
Suspect Killed by Police
Police confronted Sanford outside the church, where he was shot and killed by officers. Video from the scene captured his body lying near the burning structure.
Scanner traffic indicated that Sanford’s truck emitted a beeping sound, raising fears of an improvised explosive device (IED). Bomb squad teams are actively inspecting a suspicious item recovered from the property.
Authorities have urged first responders and the public to stay clear of the area until the scene is fully secured.
Ongoing Investigation
Police estimate that hundreds of people were inside the church when the attack began. Several remain unaccounted for, and it is feared more victims may still be inside the damaged structure.
Emergency services deployed 15–20 vehicles, including unmarked units, along South Saginaw Road. The area has been sealed off as the investigation continues.
Officials summarized the events: Sanford drove his truck into the LDS church, opened fire on parishioners, set the building ablaze, and was fatally shot by police. The church remains closed off due to structural damage and ongoing concerns about potential explosives.
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