On the morning of September 28, 2025, a horrific attack unfolded at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, as worshippers gathered for service. The assailant, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan, drove a truck into the front entrance of the church, then exited the vehicle and unleashed gunfire on those inside. He also deliberately set the building on fire.
By the time the attack was over, at least two people had been killed and eight others wounded, some critically.
The assailant was shot and killed by responding police officers after a rapid response. Authorities have said hundreds of people were present in the chapel when the violence began, increasing the potential for far greater loss.
The timeline shows the attack was swift: first Sanford rammed the vehicle into the church, then opened fire, then set the fire, then an exchange with police ended the threat. Officers arrived at the scene within roughly 30 seconds of the first 911 call and neutralized the attacker within about seven minutes.
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As investigators worked to understand what motivated the attack, they reported that Sanford may have acted alone. His prior history, mental state, connections to the church, or ideological motives are still under examination.
Reuters
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The building sustained severe damage from both the shooting and the fire, and there are fears additional victims might be found once firefighters and investigators gain full access.
The local community and leaders responded with shock and grief. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the church leadership, and neighbors expressed sorrow, condemned the violence, and emphasized the need for healing, support for victims, and unity in the face of such a tragedy.
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In addition, because this attack occurred at a place of worship—traditionally seen as sanctuaries—its impact was felt deeply, rupturing the sense of safety among congregants.
While much is still unknown—including the precise motive, whether the attacker had ties to the congregation, and whether more victims remain—the Michigan church shooting has added once more to the serious national conversation in the United States about gun violence, security in places of worship, mental health, emergency response, and community resilience.
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