Michigan Church Attack Leaves Four Dead; Suspect Identified as Former Marine

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, a tragic attack occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. The assailant, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, drove his pickup truck into the church during a service, opened fire on congregants, and set the building on fire. The attack resulted in four fatalities and eight injuries. Sanford was killed by police responding to the scene.

Sanford, a former U.S. Marine and Iraq War veteran, had previously expressed anti-Mormon sentiments. Days before the attack, he told city council candidate Kris Johns that he believed Mormons were the "antichrist." Investigators are examining Sanford's background, including his time in Utah, where he dated a devout member of the Church and reportedly struggled with addiction.

The FBI is treating the incident as an act of targeted violence and is leading the investigation. Authorities are searching Sanford's residence and digital devices to determine a motive. President Donald Trump condemned the attack, labeling it a targeted assault on Christians and calling for an end to the epidemic of violence in the country.

The church building was severely damaged by the fire, and emergency crews continue to search the debris for additional victims. The community is mourning the loss of life and grappling with the impact of the violence.