On Sunday, a violent attack occurred at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township. Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, drove his pickup truck into the chapel during a morning service and fired an assault rifle at attendees. He then set the church on fire before being fatally shot by law enforcement in the parking lot. The attack killed at least six people and injured ten others.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye praised the quick actions of first responders and worshippers who protected others, especially children. "Hundreds of people just practicing their faith, just extreme courage, brave, and that's the type of community that we are," he said, as reported by Detroit Free Press. Law enforcement confronted the attacker, who had an assault rifle and is believed to have acted alone, less than a minute after the 911 call.
The FBI is leading the investigation into the Michigan attack, with multiple agencies involved. Renye said, "We're working tirelessly to find additional bodies." Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson offered condolences. Flags will be flown at half-staff until on Friday. The Grand Blanc Police Department will provide counseling services starting Monday, which U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin called "very important," as per Audacy. A family assistance center is open at the Genesys Conference and Banquet Center. Authorities ask anyone with information to call 1-800-225-5324 or submit tips online, as Reuben Coleman of the FBI Detroit field office said, "Any piece of information could be crucial," as mentioned by Detroit Free Press.
