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Michigan LDS Church Attack Leaves Four Dead; Gunman Identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford

Authorities continue searches of the fire-damaged church as federal agents assist the investigation.

Overview

  • Police say a man drove a pickup into the Grand Blanc Township church during Sunday services, opened fire with a rifle and set the building ablaze before being shot dead by responding officers.
  • Latest official updates report at least four people dead and eight injured, with officials cautioning that totals may change as crews finish searching the burned areas and hospitals report in.
  • The suspect was identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, and investigators searched his residence as part of a widening probe.
  • Firefighters contained the blaze after hours of flames and smoke, and authorities established reunification sites while asking the public to avoid the area.
  • Local and federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF, are assisting, the motive remains under investigation, and officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public.