Michigan LDS Church Tragedy: War Veteran Identified as Suspect in Shooting and Fire
Grand Blanc Township, Michigan – What began as a quiet Sunday service on September 28, 2025, at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel ended in violence and devastation. Worshippers gathered in prayer suddenly found themselves fleeing for their lives when a gunman stormed into the building, opened fire, and set the sanctuary ablaze. Authorities are calling the assault both deliberate and premeditated.
The suspect was identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old former U.S. Marine from nearby Burton. Police responding within minutes fatally shot him outside the church, bringing the immediate threat to an end—but not before multiple lives were lost.
The Attack
According to witnesses, Sanford drove a four-door pickup truck—adorned with two American flags—straight through the church’s main entrance during the morning service. Exiting the vehicle, he opened fire on the congregation, creating chaos among the hundreds gathered inside.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed that officers arrived on scene less than a minute after 911 calls were placed. Despite the rapid response, Sanford managed to ignite a fire before being shot by police roughly eight minutes into the attack. Firefighters battled intense flames and heavy smoke for hours as parts of the building collapsed.
Explosives and Accelerants
The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) confirmed gasoline had been used as an accelerant. Investigators also discovered suspicious devices inside the church, though it is not yet clear whether they were part of the fire’s ignition. ATF Special Agent in Charge James Deir stated that the presence of these devices indicates the attack was carefully planned.
Casualties and Ongoing Search
By Sunday evening, four deaths were confirmed. One victim remained in critical condition, while seven others were hospitalized but stable. Two bodies were pulled from the burnt ruins of the church, though the full extent of casualties may rise as recovery crews continue searching once conditions allow.
Officials also reported several people unaccounted for. A law enforcement source told CNN that as many as seven individuals were missing, though some may simply not have been in contact with loved ones.
Who Was Thomas Jacob Sanford?
Sanford served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, reaching the rank of sergeant. He deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom from August 2007 to March 2008, specializing as an automotive mechanic and vehicle recovery operator.
Authorities have yet to identify any personal connection between Sanford and the LDS Church. His Burton home is now sealed off as investigators search for evidence of motive or planning.
Family Struggles and Personal History
Sanford’s past was marked by hardship. In 2015, his newborn son Brantlee was diagnosed with congenital hyperinsulinism, a rare and dangerous disorder that causes dangerously low blood sugar levels. Born six weeks premature, Brantlee required constant monitoring, a feeding tube, and ventilator support.
At the time, Sanford—then known locally as Jake Sanford—took family leave from his Coca-Cola job to help care for his son, while his fiancée, Tella Campbell, stayed home full-time. The family sought treatment at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Texas, one of only two hospitals in the U.S. specializing in the condition. Community donations and support were essential to their survival during that crisis.
A Cryptic Social Media Post
Hours before the attack, a politically charged post appeared on Sanford’s mother’s Facebook page. The message read: “Life isn’t a FREE RIDE!! No matter what JOB you have!!!” and included a repost about congressional benefits and accountability. While the post was later deleted, its timing has raised questions among investigators, though no clear link to the attack has yet been established.
Neighbors React
In Sanford’s Burton neighborhood, residents expressed disbelief.
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Randy Thronson, a 71-year-old veteran, described Sanford as a “good neighbor,” adding, “It’s really sad. He might have just snapped.”
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Mike Pate, 44, echoed the shock: “It feels surreal. You see these stories on the news, but never expect them on your doorstep.”
A Community in Mourning
As investigators sift through the ashes of the destroyed chapel and Sanford’s home, the motive for the attack remains unclear. No manifesto or direct explanation has surfaced.
For the people of Grand Blanc Township, the tragedy has left deep scars. Families mourn lost loved ones, survivors recover from injuries and trauma, and an entire faith community grieves the destruction of a sanctuary once meant for peace and prayer.
While authorities continue their work, the path to healing will take far longer. For now, the community clings to one another for strength in the shadow of an unthinkable act.