Mass Shooting and Church Arson in the USA: Five Victims and New Details of the Tragedy
In the state of Michigan, the city of Grand Blanc, a tragic and large-scale violent incident took place — an attack on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that ended in a deadly mass shooting and arson.
This horrifying event, which occurred on Sunday morning, resulted in five fatalities.
At least eight people were injured with varying degrees of severity, including those present at the service during the attack.
The perpetrator, identified by police, is 40-year-old former Marine Thomas Jacob Sanford from the neighboring town of Burton, who served in the military from 2004 to 2008 and participated in combat operations in Iraq.According to Grand Blanc Police Chief William Renaud, the attacker caused chaos by ramming his car into the church entrance and then opening fire with an automatic rifle on congregants attending the Sunday service.
He also deliberately set the building on fire, complicating rescue efforts.
During the investigation, authorities found that the attacker was equipped with several homemade explosive devices, which detonated during the attack.
Law enforcement responded swiftly — first officers arrived just 30 seconds after the emergency call.As of Sunday evening, two additional victims were found inside the building, in addition to those who died during the attack, according to officials.
The scene also revealed three improvised explosive devices, indicating prior preparation for the assault.Police chief noted that faithful churchgoers showed extraordinary courage and heroism, risking their lives to protect children and other congregants.
They carried children to safe places rather than fleeing, demonstrating remarkable bravery.
Meanwhile, a similar incident occurred in Texas, where a gunman killed two adults and a child.
The investigation continues, and authorities urge people to stay vigilant and cautious in crowded places.