Grand Blanc shooting victims targeted during Russell M Nelson memorial, church set on fire

GRAND BLANC, MICHIGAN: A horrifying mass shooting unfolded at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday morning, September 29.

The attack left at least four people dead and eight others injured, according to the Daily Express US. 

The victims attending a memorial service for President Russell M Nelson, the church’s longtime leader and oldest-serving president, who died Saturday night, September 27, at the age of 101 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Victims targeted during Russell M Nelson memorial

The assault began when a gunman drove his truck into the church before firing on those gathered. Authorities identified the suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40. He later set the building on fire before being killed in a shootout with police.

The FBI has taken over the investigation, describing the assault as an “act of targeted violence.” As the flames spread, firefighters rushed to contain the blaze and rescue victims.

According to ABC News, gunfire erupted around 10:25 am, creating panic and forcing mourners to flee.

Donald Trump, police and officials respond to attack

Grand Blanc Township Police confirmed the suspect was dead and assured the public there was no ongoing threat.

“There has been an active shooter at the Church of Latter-day Saints on McCandlish Road. There are multiple victims and the shooter is down,” officials said.

President Donald Trump denounced the incident as an attack on faith. “This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America,” he wrote on X.

“The Trump Administration will keep the public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!"

overnor Gretchen Whitmer also shared her grief on X: “My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable. I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. We will continue to monitor this situation and hold the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc close.”

As per The Sun, FBI Director Kash Patel said, “We are tracking reports of the horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act. Our prayers are with the victims and their families during this terrible tragedy.”

Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed the sentiment, calling the attack “heartbreaking and chilling,” and urged prayers for the victims.