Michigan Church Attack: What We Know About the Suspect, the Victims, and Trump’s Response

A peaceful Sunday service in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, turned into a nightmare when a man drove a truck into a church, shot at people inside, and set the building on fire. On September 28, 2025, the attack happened inside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shocking a community that had come together to pray and find peace.

The suspect was a 40-year-old man named Thomas Jacob Sanford, who used to be a Marine and lived in Burton. People in the church and the community were shocked by his violent actions.

So far, officials have confirmed four deaths: two from gunshot wounds and two who were found after the fire. At least eight other people were hurt, including kids, and one person is in critical condition. Police said that more victims could be found once the ruins are fully searched.

Witnesses said that people were scared and panicked during the attack. Paula, who had been a member of the church for 40 years, remembered thinking, “I didn’t know if we were going to make it out.” The church itself has been declared a total loss.

Investigators found out that Sanford was in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, where he did combat tours in Iraq and earned a number of medals. Even though he has a long list of awards, police are now searching his home and digital devices to find out why he did it.

Many people are having a hard time reconciling Sanford’s military past with the violence of his actions. Officials say there is still no clear answer.

Leaders of the country acted quickly. President Donald Trump called the violence “yet another targeted attack on Christians” and said that the FBI is in charge of the investigation along with local police.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi and Vice President JD Vance both called for people to come together and help. Grand Blanc is in mourning for the lives lost and the destruction of a sacred space as investigators look for answers.