4 dead, 8 injured in shooting at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ church in Michigan
Sep 28, 2025, 9:36 AM | Updated: Sep 29, 2025, 2:13 pm
SALT LAKE CITY – Ten people were injured during a shooting inside a Michigan church belonging to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sunday morning. Three of the victims died, as well as the shooter, according to Michigan police.
Michigan officials identified the suspected shooter as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, from Burton, Michigan.
The shooter drove his car into the church building, located on McCandlish Road, police said. Sanford then exited the car and began firing shots. At that point, the building was set on fire.
Initial reports said one person had died in the shooting, but Chief William Renye with the Grand Blanc Township Police Department updated the public Sunday afternoon, saying a second person had died, seven other victims were in stable condition, while one remained in critical condition.
On Sunday evening, authorities announced another person had died.
Dr. Michael Danic, Medical Chief of Staff at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital, said its staff worked to help five people with gunshot wounds and three people with smoke inhalation.
Danic noted the actions of people who were at the scene, and described how the community displayed “heroic actions” by pulling people out of the burning church and helping treat those who were injured.
On Monday morning, local and federal authorities held a press conference where local officers said everyone was accounted for following the incident, despite remaining wreckage.
“This may be a familiar pain, but it hurts every time,” Mich. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said of the shooting.
The FBI in Detroit later posted on its Facebook page that they are asking the public for any information they may have about the shooter.
Law enforcement guard the area along McCandlish Road near a shooting that took place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, in Grand Blanc, Mich. (AP Photo/Jose Juarez)
Police arrived at the scene and Sanford was then hit after an exchange of gunfire, police said. He died at the scene.
Police said there was no ongoing safety threat to the public.
On Sunday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement following the shooting.
“A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available.
“The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.
“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
Gov. Spencer Cox said on his unofficial X account that he was praying for those impacted in Michigan.
I’m sick. Praying for my brothers and sisters in Michigan. https://t.co/PYBimCK0KN
— Spencer Cox (@SpencerJCox) September 28, 2025
The shooting followed the death of the church’s President Russell M. Nelson, who died Saturday evening at 101.
President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Dallin H. Oaks, who will soon fill Nelson’s shoes as prophet-president of the church, also made a statement on Monday.
Our hearts are heavy with sorrow. Millions of us are mourning the passing of our beloved Prophet and President, Russell M. Nelson. He was a dear friend and a cherished leader.
His timeless teachings continue to guide us and help us find comfort amid suffering, especially in the wake of the recent violence aimed at members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan this past Sunday.
The awful tragedy that took place in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28, reminds us of our sacred responsibilities as followers of Jesus Christ. We mourn with our members who have lost loved ones, and we join in prayer for comfort with others around the world who are suffering from similar tragedies.
We all seek answers and understanding in the wake of trauma, shock, and grief. We are grateful to all who are reaching out with service, prayers, and words of support during this difficult time.
May we all remember the truth that each of us is a beloved child of God. Our Savior Jesus Christ, through His infinite Atonement, overcame death and gives us the joyful assurance that each of us will be gloriously resurrected.
On behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I extend this expression to the family and friends of those affected by this recent tragedy and all others who may be experiencing loss and heartache at this time.
This story was updated with additional information.
