Mass Shooting and Arson at Latter-day Saints Church Shocks Michigan Community
On the morning of September 28, 2025, a peaceful Sunday worship service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, turned into a scene of terror when a gunman drove his truck through the church wall, opened fire with an assault-style rifle, and set the building on fire.
At least 1 person is dead and 9 others wounded, with authorities warning that more victims may be found inside the charred remains of the building.
Timeline of the Attack
- 10:25 AM: Congregation gathered for Sunday service.
- ~10:26 AM: Suspect crashes truck into church wall.
- ~10:27 AM: Gunman opens fire with assault-style rifle; fire erupts.
- ~10:30 AM: Police arrive; exchange gunfire with suspect, who is killed.
- Afternoon: Fire extinguished; recovery and investigation begin.
Eyewitness Accounts: ‘Extreme Fear’ and Heroism
| Witness | Experience |
|---|---|
| Paul Kirby, 38 | Heard explosion, saw gunman with rifle. Shrapnel hit his leg as he rescued his family. “The scaredest I’ve ever been.” |
| Kristin & John Juarez | Separated during chaos; Kristin hid in bathroom, prepared to die. Reunited and took shelter in ditch. John’s sleeve stained with blood. |
| Debbie Horkey, 74 | Watched from condo backyard: “Screaming and gunshots… one woman just yelling for help.” |
| Tony Deck, 56 | Brought bottled water to scene. Saw yellow tarps over bodies. Plea: “Just respect humans.” |
Key Facts from Law Enforcement
- Suspect: 40-year-old male, identity not yet released.
- Weapon: Assault-style rifle.
- Method: Drove truck through front wall, shot at least 10 people, ignited fire intentionally.
- Outcome: Suspect killed in exchange of gunfire with police.
- Investigation: Led by FBI and ATF; motive still unknown.
Infographic: Anatomy of the Attack
Community and National Response
Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin praised first responders and called the event an “unspeakable tragedy.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement: “Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries… We pray for peace and healing.”
President Trump posted on Truth Social, urging prayers and condemning the “epidemic of violence” in America.
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