Federal authorities are investigating a tragic shooting that occurred at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The incident took place on a Sunday when a 40-year-old man opened fire, resulting in the deaths of four worshipers and injuries to eight others.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared details about the suspect, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a U.S. Marine veteran. According to Leavitt, the FBI believes Sanford harbored animosity towards members of the Mormon faith. She indicated that the investigation is ongoing, with authorities trying to determine whether the attack was premeditated and if Sanford left any notes.
The shooting began when Sanford drove his pickup truck into the church, displaying two American flags in the bed. He was armed with a semiautomatic rifle and carried explosive devices, although it remains unclear if he used them during the attack. After the shooting, he allegedly set fire to the church, which resulted in the building being engulfed in flames.
Two victims died from gunshot wounds, while two others were found deceased inside the church. First responders arrived within 30 seconds of the shooting, but Sanford was shot and killed by police in a nearby parking lot.
Sanford, who had no prior criminal record, lived in Burton, Michigan, close to the church. In a Facebook photo from 2019, he was seen wearing a "Trump 2020" shirt with the slogan "Make Liberals Cry Again." Authorities are executing multiple search warrants at his home and family residences to gather more information.
The FBI has encouraged anyone with information about the shooting to contact them. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the impact of this violent act.
