GRAND BLANC, Mich. — Authorities have identified the suspect in Sunday’s mass shooting and arson at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan. Officials confirmed that Sanford was fatally shot by police outside the burning building after carrying out the deadly assault.
Law enforcement sources said investigators are searching Sanford’s home at 4156 Atherton Road in Burton, which has been cordoned off as part of the ongoing probe. Property records list the residence under Sanford’s name. Officials also confirmed that Sanford owned a 2008 GMC Sierra, the same vehicle witnesses saw rammed into the church’s front entrance at the start of the attack. The truck bore veteran license plates, suggesting a possible military background.
The violence unfolded during morning worship services at the LDS church, located at 4285 McCandlish Road. After driving his vehicle into the entrance, Sanford allegedly emerged with an assault-style rifle and opened fire on parishioners inside. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunfire echoed through the sanctuary and worshippers scrambled for safety. Authorities confirmed that at least 10 people were shot, with two fatalities, including one victim who later died at the hospital.
Witnesses reported seeing two elderly men lying outside the church shortly after the shooting began. Following the gunfire, Sanford allegedly set the building on fire. Video footage captured at the scene shows the suspect deceased on the ground outside the church after being confronted and shot by responding officers. Drone footage later revealed flames consuming the structure, with the roof partially collapsed as fire crews worked to contain the blaze.
Scanner traffic raised concerns when first responders reported hearing a beeping sound coming from Sanford’s truck, prompting fears of an improvised explosive device (IED). Bomb squad units were dispatched and continue to investigate a suspicious item found on church property. Authorities have ordered responders to keep a safe distance from the vehicle until it is cleared. Meanwhile, thick smoke continues to rise from the site as firefighters battle remaining hot spots.
Police estimate that hundreds of congregants were inside the church at the time of the attack. Several remain unaccounted for as emergency crews search through the wreckage. Between 15 and 20 emergency vehicles, including unmarked law enforcement units, responded along South Saginaw Road, sealing off the immediate area. Officials are urging the public to avoid the scene as investigators work to determine Sanford’s motive and assess potential explosive threats.