Grand Blanc, Michigan – In a horrific act of violence that has shaken the local community, a U.S. Marine veteran carried out a deadly attack on a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) chapel during Sunday services, resulting in four fatalities and multiple injuries. The incident, which unfolded on September 28, 2025, is being investigated by the FBI as targeted violence against a place of faith.
Authorities identified the assailant as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old resident of Burton, Michigan. According to police reports, Sanford drove his pickup truck directly into the chapel in Grand Blanc just as worshippers were gathered for their weekly service. Emerging from the vehicle armed with an AR-15-style rifle, he opened fire on the congregation, wounding several individuals, including children, before setting the building on fire.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as attendees scrambled for safety amid gunfire and rising flames. “It was like something out of a nightmare,” one survivor recounted anonymously. “People were screaming, trying to protect their families. The smoke was everywhere.”
Law enforcement responded swiftly to the active shooter situation. Officers engaged Sanford in a shootout outside the chapel, ultimately killing him at the scene. No officers were reported injured in the exchange.
The attack claimed the lives of four people, whose identities have not yet been released pending family notifications. Eight survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals, with conditions ranging from stable to critical. Medical teams are providing care, and community support services have been mobilized to assist those affected.
The FBI has taken the lead in the investigation, classifying the event as an act of targeted violence against a religious institution. Preliminary findings suggest the attack may have been premeditated, though a motive has not been publicly disclosed. Investigators are reviewing Sanford’s background, including his military service, social media activity, and any potential ties to extremist groups.
Local leaders and faith communities have condemned the violence. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement expressing condolences and calling for unity: “This senseless act of hatred has no place in our state. We stand with the LDS community and all those impacted as we seek justice and healing.”
The LDS Church released a brief statement mourning the loss and offering prayers for the victims: “Our hearts are broken by this tragedy. We are grateful for the quick response of first responders and are supporting our members through this difficult time.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Grand Blanc community has begun organizing vigils and fundraisers to support the victims’ families, reflecting a collective resolve to recover from the devastation.
