Overview
- The attack, which occurred on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, began when a gunman drove a pickup into the Grand Blanc meetinghouse, opened fire and set the building on fire, killing four people and injuring eight others.
- Federal investigators concluded the shooting was a targeted act motivated by anti‑Mormon beliefs, and local police officers shot and killed the attacker at the scene; authorities identified him as 40‑year‑old Thomas Sanford.
- Church leaders held the groundbreaking on Sept. 28, 2026 to build a larger stake center on the same property, and they expect construction to take about 14 months with a future open house and dedication planned when it is finished.
- Local recovery efforts launched after the attack include a Victim Compassion Fund and the Grand Blanc Advocacy, Recovery and Connection Center, which opened this year to provide long‑term mental health and trauma services for survivors and the wider community.
- Survivors and first responders who performed rescues during the attack continue to recover physically and emotionally, and church and civic leaders say rebuilding on the original site is meant to honor the victims and strengthen community ties while the area watches security and support needs for houses of worship.