Suspect in Shooting and Fire at Michigan LDS Church Identified as War Veteran Thomas Jacob Sanford – What We’ve Learned
A quiet Sunday morning in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, turned into chaos on September 28, 2025, as gunfire erupted and flames engulfed a local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel. Authorities have now identified the assailant as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former U.S. Marine with a history of personal hardship.
According to police, Sanford drove a pickup truck flying American flags directly through the church doors during a service, then exited and opened fire on the congregation. Officers arrived within 30 seconds, and Sanford was fatally shot eight minutes later. Despite the rapid response, the church was heavily damaged, with fires raging for hours.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed gasoline was used as an accelerant and discovered suspicious devices at the scene, suggesting the attack was premeditated. Officials have not yet confirmed a motive.
By nightfall, authorities reported four confirmed deaths, one critical injury, and several people still unaccounted for. Rescue efforts were paused after dark due to safety risks, and investigators warned that the final toll may take days to determine.
Sanford served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, including deployment to Iraq. Outside his military service, he faced a decade-long family struggle, caring for his son Brantlee, who was born with congenital hyperinsulinism, a rare condition requiring intensive medical treatment. Sanford and his fiancée relied heavily on family and community support during this period.
Neighbors described Sanford as a quiet, seemingly ordinary man. Many expressed shock and disbelief at his violent actions, noting his past as a devoted father and Marine.
Despite the chaos and devastation, authorities continue to investigate Sanford’s personal history, possible motives, and the suspicious devices found at the church — leaving many questions unanswered.