Armed Veteran Attacks Michigan LDS Church, Sets It Ablaze, Kills at Least Four

Former Marine crashes vehicle and attacks the church, opens fire on congregation, then ignites the sanctuary in a brutal, targeted assault

Source: Google.com

Introduction

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, at approximately 10:25 a.m. local time, police received reports that an armed individual drove a truck into a building belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan.

The vehicle bore two American flags. After crashing into the church, the attacker exited and opened fire with an assault-style rifle on congregants attending the service. Almost immediately afterward, the church was set on fire; investigators believe gasoline was used to ignite the blaze.

Who Was the Attacker?

Local and national media have identified the suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan. Sanford was a former U.S. Marine who served from 2004 to 2008, including deployment in Iraq. During his service, he attained the rank of sergeant. ABC News

After leaving the military, Sanford returned to Burton, where he lived. Authorities are still investigating his motives, mental health, and whether this attack was premeditated.

Investigators have already searched his home and are scrutinizing his digital devices and communications for clues. One curious detail: Sanford’s vehicle carried a license plate tied to Iraq War veterans. That raises questions about potential symbolism or personal identity linked to his military past.

Because the attack occurred the day after the LDS Church announced the death of its president, Russell M. Nelson, some have speculated whether there was a connection. So far, no confirmed link has been found. ABC News

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Law Enforcement Response

Within minutes of the incident, at around 10:33 a.m., police and first responders engaged with the shooter in the church’s parking lot. In a shootout, Sanford was killed. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed the exchange. Reuters

During a search of Sanford’s truck, authorities discovered several improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It remains unclear whether any of those were used. The fire he started caused significant structural damage: part of the chapel collapsed, and recovery efforts are ongoing to ensure no additional victims remain under the rubble.

FBI agents, bomb technicians, SWAT teams, and evidence units were deployed to assist local law enforcement. The attack is being treated as a targeted act of violence. “This act of violence has no place in our country,” said Reuben Coleman, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s Detroit field office. Reuters

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Victims and Damage

So far, at least four people have been confirmed dead, and at least eight have been injured in the attack. Because part of the structure collapsed under fire damage, investigators warn that additional victims might yet be found inside the wreckage.

The identities of those killed and wounded have not yet been made public. A support center has been established for victims and their families at the Genesys Conference and Banquet Center, located at 805 Health Park Blvd., Grand Blanc. AP News

Public & Political Reaction

The community response was immediate and emotional. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences, calling the attack devastating for the state.

Former President Donald Trump condemned the act as an attack on Christians and called for an end to the “epidemic of violence” plaguing America. AP News

The LDS Church issued a statement offering sympathy and urging congregants to unite in prayer. In the wake of the attack, places of worship across Michigan and the United States have tightened security, and the FBI has increased monitoring at religious sites. AP News

In Context: A Grim Pattern

Alarmingly, this was not an isolated event. Within the same 24-hour period, lethal attacks occurred in North Carolina and Texas. At least two of those were also allegedly carried out by Iraq War veterans. Reuters

The Michigan incident has been labeled the 324th mass shooting in the U.S. in 2025 (counting events where four or more people are wounded or killed, excluding the perpetrator). Reuters

While no definitive motive has been determined, certain aspects hint at a troubled past. The use of a war veteran license plate, military experience, and symbolic gestures point toward someone who may have been grappling with trauma, mental health challenges, or personal grievances. Unfortunately, veterans’ struggles often remain hidden, stigmatized, or minimized.

Many servicemembers resist seeking help, out of pride or fear, yet for some, the psychological wounds of war can fester. This tragedy underscores the urgent need to address veterans’ mental health, reintegration programs, and support systems far beyond ceremonial gestures.

We can’t simply say “thank you for your service,” hand out a medal, and hope all scars vanish. The cost of ignoring the invisible damage is too high, and today, innocent lives pay that price.

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