Authorities are continuing to investigate a deadly attack at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, where suspected gunman Thomas Jacob Sanford killed four people and injured at least eight others before dying in a shootout with police.
Suspect’s Background and Beliefs
Sanford, 40, was a former U.S. Marine who served from 2004 to 2008 and was deployed to Iraq in 2007. Friends and acquaintances say he had long harbored animosity toward the Mormon faith, often ranting that members were “the Antichrist” and warning they would “take over the world.”
Local council candidate Kris Johns recalled Sanford’s recent outbursts, while longtime friend Francis Tersigni described Sanford as “fascinated with Mormons” in a way that grew increasingly hostile. Other acquaintances said Sanford had battled substance abuse and suffered after a failed relationship with a Mormon woman in Utah.
The Attack
On Sunday morning, Sanford allegedly rammed his pickup truck into the church building during a Fast and Testimony Meeting, a monthly service where members share their faith. He then opened fire on congregants and reportedly set parts of the building on fire, likely using gasoline, before exchanging gunfire with police.
Survivor Paul Kirby described the terrifying scene:
“That’s when we hear a loud boom and the back wall of the chapel just buckles. … I saw the shooter aiming at people and firing. It was the scaredest I’ve ever been in my life. I just thought: ‘Is my family OK?’”
Victims and Aftermath
Among the victims was John Bond, a Navy veteran and grandfather, remembered by family and friends as a devoted church member. Several others suffered gunshot wounds, while some were treated for smoke inhalation after the blaze.
Sanford’s father expressed deep sorrow for the victims, saying: “I feel terrible about all the families that have been hurt. They’re under the same pain my wife and I are under.”
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI and local law enforcement are working to determine Sanford’s full motive, though his past remarks, substance abuse issues, and failed personal relationships are being closely examined.
The attack has left the Grand Blanc community reeling, with the church building heavily damaged by fire and congregants grieving the sudden loss of friends and family.
