GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A Sunday morning service turned into a nightmare when a gunman stormed the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, driving his pickup truck through the front doors before opening fire on worshippers and setting the building on fire.
Authorities confirmed four people were killed in the attack — two from gunshot wounds and two others who were found deceased inside the church. At least eight more suffered injuries, some critically.
The suspected shooter, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan, was fatally shot by responding officers after exchanging gunfire.
Attack Unfolds During Worship
Officials say Sanford rammed his truck into the building just as Sunday services were underway. Hundreds of congregants, including children, were inside when chaos erupted.
“He drove straight through the doors and immediately started shooting,” one witness told reporters. “People were screaming and running for cover. It was absolute panic.”
Authorities confirmed Sanford also started a fire inside the church during the assault. Firefighters quickly contained the blaze, but the damage to both the building and the community’s sense of safety is immeasurable.
Disturbing Background: Trump Sign and Anti-Mormon Rhetoric
Public records show Sanford lived at 4156 E Atherton Rd in Burton, where a blue Trump campaign sign was recently photographed affixed to a STOP sign in June 2025. The display has drawn attention and speculation about Sanford’s political and personal motivations.
In addition, conversations with locals suggest Sanford harbored deep resentment toward the Mormon faith.
Burton City Council candidate Kris Johns revealed that he unknowingly spoke with Sanford just last week while canvassing.
“He was very friendly at first,” Johns said in an interview. “But when the topic shifted to religion, he became insistent that Mormons are the anti-Christ. It was unsettling, but not violent at the time.”
Johns described Sanford as a former Marine who once lived in Utah and had a relationship with a woman in the LDS church. Sanford allegedly told Johns he had his tattoos removed to participate in church ceremonies, further highlighting his conflicted relationship with the faith.
Days later, Johns said he was shocked to see Sanford’s face on the news following the deadly church attack.
A Community in Mourning
Grand Blanc Township residents are struggling to process the tragedy. Vigils are being planned for the victims as law enforcement continues investigating Sanford’s motives.
“My heart breaks for everyone involved,” Johns said. “This has shaken our whole community, and we all need to come together in prayer and support.”
Investigation Continues
Authorities are now piecing together Sanford’s history, including his political display, religious hostility, and troubling personal struggles. While the official motive remains under investigation, the attack has raised urgent concerns about domestic extremism and violence targeting faith communities.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media
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