Michigan church shooting leaves at least four dead, eight injured

A Sunday morning service at a Michigan church turned into chaos and flames when a gunman rammed his truck into the entrance, opened fire with an assault rifle, and set the building ablaze.

At least four people are dead and eight more injured after the attack at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Police named the suspect as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton. He was shot dead by officers within eight minutes of the first emergency call.

The church released a sombre statement:

“A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire … We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.”

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. 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 it “unacceptable” and said her heart was breaking for the community. US President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social that the shooting was “horrendous” and that “the suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn.”

FBI agents are working alongside local police. FBI chief Kash Patel said on X:

“Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act. Our prayers are with the victims and their families during this terrible tragedy.”

Grand Blanc, a town of about 7,700 people northwest of Detroit, is shaken. Social-media footage shows the chapel engulfed in flames and a pickup truck with two U.S. flags still parked at the scene.