Authorities have formally identified the gunman behind Sunday’s horrific church shooting in Grand Blanc Township as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old resident of Burton, Michigan. The attack, which has left the community reeling, claimed the lives of five individuals and injured ten more, several of whom remain in critical condition.
The violence erupted just after 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on McCandlish Road, where worshippers had gathered for their weekly service. According to eyewitnesses and law enforcement reports, Sanford drove his pickup truck directly through the church’s main entrance, shattering glass and sending debris flying into the sanctuary. He then emerged from the vehicle wielding an AR-style assault rifle, and began firing indiscriminately at congregants.
Panic swept through the church as attendees scrambled for cover. Some fled through side exits, while others shielded children and elderly parishioners. Within minutes, Sanford reportedly ignited a fire inside the building, using accelerants that caused the structure to become rapidly engulfed in flames. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky, visible for miles.
Responding officers from the Grand Blanc Township Police Department, along with agents from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, arrived on the scene within minutes. A tense standoff ensued outside the burning church, culminating in a gunfire exchange that left Sanford dead. Authorities confirmed he was shot and killed at the scene, preventing further loss of life.
In the aftermath, emergency crews worked to extinguish the blaze and rescue survivors. The church, a longstanding pillar of the local faith community, suffered extensive damage. Investigators are still combing through the wreckage, and officials have warned that additional victims may be discovered as the search continues.
A subsequent search of Sanford’s home in Burton revealed disturbing evidence: bomb-making materials, extremist literature, and three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) found in his truck. The FBI has joined the investigation, examining Sanford’s digital footprint, including phone records, social media activity, and any affiliations with extremist groups. So far, no clear motive has been established.
“This sort of thing is painful for our entire community,” said Grand Blanc Mayor John Creasey during a press briefing. “I’m struggling to digest all that has happened, and my heart goes out to all of the affected families. We will not let this act of violence define us.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also issued a statement, condemning the attack: “Violence anywhere — especially in a place of worship — is unacceptable. We must come together to support the victims and ensure justice is served.”
Local hospitals have mobilized trauma teams to care for the wounded, and grief counseling services are being offered at nearby community centers. A candlelight vigil is planned for Wednesday evening at Bicentennial Park, where residents will gather to honor the victims and show solidarity.
Law enforcement officials are expected to provide a third update later today as the investigation continues to unfold. The Grand Blanc Township community, known for its quiet neighborhoods and close-knit spirit, now faces the difficult task of healing from one of the deadliest mass shootings in Michigan’s recent history.
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