Published

Crime29 September, 20252 min read

Ex-Marine Thomas Jacob Sanford Kills Four, Injures Eight, and Sets Michigan Church on Fire During Service

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Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old former US Marine, attacked a Michigan LDS church. Sanford rammed his vehicle into the church, opened fire killing four and injuring eight.

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Ex-Marine Thomas Jacob Sanford Kills Four, Injures Eight, and Sets Michigan Church on Fire During Service
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Church Attack in Michigan

On September 28, 2025, a tragic attack occurred at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old former Marine and Iraq War veteran, drove his pickup truck into the church during a crowded Sunday service. He then opened fire with an assault rifle and set the building on fire using gasoline.

“A former Marine, Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, attacked The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, during a crowded Sunday service.”
Santa Fe New Mexican

The attack resulted in the deaths of at least four people and injuries to eight others. Sanford was killed in a shootout with police officers who responded quickly to the scene. The FBI is leading the investigation, treating the incident as an act of targeted violence, though the motive remains unclear.

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Image: NewsRadio WHAM 1180
Reporting for this sectionSanta Fe New MexicanHindustan TimesNewsweek

Investigation of Religious Site Attack

The attack has been linked to a broader pattern of violence against religious sites in the United States. This incident is part of a troubling trend of shootings at houses of worship, with the FBI deploying over 100 agents to investigate. Authorities are examining Sanford's background, including his military service from 2004 to 2008, and his deployment to Iraq.

Despite his military background, Sanford had no known specialized explosives training, although explosive devices were found at the scene. The community is in shock, with local leaders and residents expressing their grief and calling for unity and healing.

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Image: National Post
Reporting for this sectionEast Bay TimesAmerican Military NewsCentral Fife Times

Response to Church Attack

In the aftermath of the attack, bomb threats were made against other local churches, but no explosives were found. The incident has prompted increased security measures at religious sites across the country.

“Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the attack.”
CNN

President Donald Trump and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the attack, with Trump describing it as a targeted assault on Christians. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized the need for peace and healing within the community.

Reporting for this sectionCNNRepublic WorldThe US Sun

Investigation and Community Response

The investigation into Sanford's motive is ongoing, with authorities examining his home and phone records. Some reports suggest that Sanford harbored hatred toward the Mormon faith, though this has not been confirmed.

The attack has reignited discussions about the safety of religious institutions and the need for increased security measures. Community leaders have called for calm and unity, urging residents to support one another during this difficult time.

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Image: 650 KENI
Reporting for this sectionWITNCBCThe Daily Beast