Gunman Thomas Jacob Sanford Killed by Police After Deadly Attack on Michigan LDS Church — 4 Dead, 8 Wounded

GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. — A Sunday service at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in suburban Flint turned into a tragedy when a gunman crashed his truck into the building, opened fire, and set it ablaze, leaving four people dead and at least eight others injured.

Authorities identified the attacker as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Grand Blanc. Police say Sanford rammed a vehicle into the church shortly after 10 a.m. on September 28 before firing multiple rounds inside the building. Witnesses reported chaos as worshippers fled through doors and windows to escape the flames and gunfire.

Responding officers confronted Sanford outside the church. According to officials, he ignored commands to drop his weapon and was fatally shot. Law enforcement said the incident was over within minutes, preventing further loss of life.

Among the victims were both church members and visitors, though officials have not yet released their names. The injured were transported to area hospitals; several remain in critical condition.

Investigators are working to determine Sanford’s motive. Grand Blanc Township police confirmed they are coordinating with state and federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, to review his background and whether he had any connection to the congregation.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “an unspeakable act of violence” and pledged state resources to support survivors and families of the victims. Leaders of the LDS Church expressed heartbreak and said they are cooperating fully with authorities.

Fire crews managed to contain the blaze, but the church sustained heavy damage. Local residents have begun gathering for vigils, bringing flowers and candles to the site.

The attack is among the deadliest mass shootings in Michigan in recent years and adds to the string of violent incidents in houses of worship nationwide.