GRAND BLANC, Mich. — Authorities have confirmed the identity of the gunman responsible for Sunday’s deadly attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan. Sanford, a former U.S. Marine who served in Iraq from 2004 to 2008, died at the scene after exchanging gunfire with police.
Investigators say Sanford deliberately rammed his Chevy Silverado into the church’s front entrance before storming inside with a semi-automatic rifle. He opened fire on parishioners, killing at least two people and injuring nine others. Authorities warn that the number of casualties may rise, as the fire Sanford set engulfed much of the building, leaving fears that additional victims may remain inside.
Law enforcement sources said several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found on the property, prompting the bomb squad to respond. The church structure has suffered significant damage, and the surrounding area remains sealed off as investigators continue their work.
Social media accounts linked to Sanford depict him as a husband and father. A 2015 fundraiser revealed that his son was born with a rare medical condition, painting a stark contrast to the violence of Sunday’s tragedy.
The motive for the attack has not been determined.