Tragedy strikes Michigan: Deadly church attack claims 4 lives; shooter killed

At least four people were killed and eight others injured on Sunday, 28 September, in a shocking attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, a small community northwest of Detroit. Authorities say the incident began when a shooter drove his car into the church during a large service and opened fire with an assault rifle, before setting the building ablaze.

Police have identified the shooter as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, a former US marine and Iraq war veteran. Sanford was killed by police after exchanging gunfire at the scene. Investigators are now searching his home and phone records to determine a possible motive for the attack.

Grand Blanc Township police chief William Renye confirmed that two additional victims were found in the debris after the building caught fire, bringing the death toll to four.

The wounded, including children, have been transported to local hospitals, and authorities have urged residents to avoid the area as emergency services continue their response.

The attack has drawn condemnation from political leaders. US President Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the “horrendous” shooting, calling it “yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States.” He added that the FBI is on the scene and called for an end to the “epidemic of violence” in the country.

Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer also expressed her condolences, writing on social media, “My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.”

This tragedy has once again raised urgent questions about gun violence and safety in places of worship in the United States, as authorities continue to investigate the motives and circumstances behind the deadly attack.

With IANS inputs