Michigan Church Massacre: F.B.I. Probes Grudge-Fueled Attack That Left 4 Dead

Targeted Assault on Latter-day Saints Church Shocks Michigan Community

In a horrifying act of targeted violence, a former Marine crashed his truck into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, on Sunday morning—opening fire and igniting a blaze that killed four worshippers, including a 6-year-old child. The F.B.I. has labeled the incident a “targeted act of violence” and is investigating a decade-long grudge as the likely motive .

Who Was the Attacker?

Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, a former U.S. Marine with service in Iraq, was shot dead by police at the scene. According to friends and acquaintances, Sanford harbored a deep-seated hatred for the Mormon faith that began over a decade ago after a painful breakup with a Latter-day Saints member he dated while living in Utah.

At his best friend’s wedding, Sanford railed against the church, calling it the “Antichrist.”
Days before the attack, he verbally attacked a canvassing politician for being “soft on Mormons.”
Friends say his behavior worsened with methamphetamine use and post-military trauma.

Timeline of the Attack

Time (EDT)	Event
~9:15 a.m.	Sanford crashes pickup truck—flying two American flags—into church entrance
9:17 a.m.	Opens fire with assault-style rifle during Sunday worship service
9:22 a.m.	Fire erupts; building quickly consumed by flames
9:30 a.m.	Police arrive, engage, and fatally shoot Sanford

Victims Identified

Authorities confirmed four fatalities, including children and adults attending the service. Names have not yet been released pending family notifications, but local leaders described the victims as “devoted members of a tight-knit faith community.”

Community Response

Grand Blanc residents have rallied around the phrase “We are Grand Blanc strong,” with vigils and memorials sprouting across the township. Church leaders emphasized resilience and called for unity in the face of hate.