A gunman opened fire at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, during a Sunday service, killing four people and injuring eight others. The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, also set the church on fire shortly after the attack before being killed by police in a shootout that occurred less than ten minutes after the initial incident.
Officials have not yet determined a motive for the violence, which occurred in front of hundreds of congregants. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer urged against speculation, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation.
The attack unfolded when Sanford crashed his vehicle into the church building and immediately began shooting. A witness described hearing a loud boom before the gunfire erupted, causing widespread fear. After the shooting, Sanford used gasoline or another accelerant to ignite the church. Investigators also discovered makeshift explosive devices at the scene.
Authorities identified Sanford as a former Marine who had been deployed to Iraq in 2007. While officials have not confirmed a motive, reports suggest Sanford may have harbored animosity towards members of the Mormon faith. His past arrests include charges for burglary and driving while intoxicated.
Social media profiles linked to Sanford indicated support for Donald Trump, and a Google Street View image of a property associated with him showed a pro-Trump sign. Family posts and a fundraising page also suggested Sanford had a child with serious health issues.