Authorities continued to search Monday for additional victims following a mass shooting and arson attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc that left at least four people dead and eight others wounded during Sunday morning worship.
According to officials, the suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, drove a truck into the church building around 9:30 a.m. before opening fire on congregants and setting the structure ablaze. He was killed in a shootout with responding police officers minutes after the rampage began.
The FBI, which is leading the investigation, has classified the incident as “an act of targeted violence.” Officials are still working to determine a motive, including whether the attack was connected to the recent death of Church President Russell M. Nelson, who passed away Saturday at the age of 101.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed that one victim died at the scene from gunfire, another succumbed to injuries at a hospital, and two additional bodies were discovered inside the burned remains of the church. Of the eight people injured, seven are reported to be in stable condition and one remains in critical condition.
“We do believe we will find additional victims once we have that scene secured,” Renye told reporters Sunday, noting that the church building is now considered a total loss due to extensive fire damage.
Emergency crews and investigators are combing through debris in search of any additional casualties or evidence.
Authorities say Sanford, an Iraq War veteran, used his vehicle to crash through the front entrance of the church before immediately opening fire on parishioners. He then ignited a fire inside the building before being killed during a confrontation with law enforcement.
The United States Marine Corps confirmed Sanford served from June 2004 to June 2008 and completed a combat tour in Iraq. He rose to the rank of sergeant before separating from active duty.
Investigators are exploring Sanford’s background, potential ties to the church, and any history of threats or grievances. As of Monday, no direct link between the suspect and the congregation had been confirmed.
President Donald Trump acknowledged the tragedy in a statement on social media Sunday, writing: “This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America.” He added that he had been fully briefed on the situation.
The FBI has deployed more than 100 agents to assist local and state authorities with the investigation, Renye said.
Meanwhile, the broader faith community is in mourning, and officials say mental health resources are being mobilized to support survivors and families of victims.
In a statement, leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed “profound sorrow” over the attack and pledged cooperation with law enforcement.
“Our hearts are broken for the victims and their families. We are praying for comfort and healing during this unspeakable tragedy,” the statement read.
Vigils are expected to be held across Michigan this week as the community reels from what officials say is one of the deadliest church attacks in state history.
