A violent attack at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, left at least four dead and eight wounded after a former U.S. Marine crashed his vehicle into the building, opened fire, and set the structure ablaze. Authorities identified the shooter as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, who was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police eight minutes after the first emergency call.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed hundreds were inside the church during Sunday services when Sanford rammed through the doors. Two victims died at the scene, while eight others were hospitalized. Rescue teams later discovered two additional bodies in the charred remains of the building, with fears more may be found as search efforts continue.
Sanford, an Iraq War veteran who served in the Marines from 2004 to 2008, had no prior criminal record. Investigators are examining his phone records and personal history for motives. The incident follows another shooting in North Carolina less than 14 hours earlier, where a separate Marine veteran allegedly killed three people.
Authorities emphasized the rapid police response prevented further casualties. "We are working tirelessly to account for everyone," Chief Renye stated, urging witnesses to come forward as the investigation unfolds.
