Sadia J. Choudhury
September 28, 2025: A devastating shooting and fire occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. The gunman, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, drove his truck into the church, opened fire with an assault rifle, and set the building on fire.
The attack left at least four dead and eight injured, including a young girl who was shot in the back. Police killed Sanford within eight minutes of receiving the first report of the incident.
Authorities discovered improvised explosive devices at the scene and are conducting a thorough investigation. The FBI is treating the incident as an act of targeted violence, and officials are examining whether Sanford’s actions may have any connection to the recent death of LDS Church President Russell M. Nelson, who passed away the day before the attack.
The local community and church members have come together to support the injured and grieving families. Quick response from law enforcement and fire services helped contain the situation and prevent further casualties.
Local and national leaders have condemned the attack, calling for an end to violence against places of worship. Residents described the tragedy as a “heartbreaking and brutal act”, expressing sorrow and solidarity with the affected community.
