The church was crowded when the gunman, identified as 40-year-old Tomas Jacob Sanford, drove his truck through the front doors and began firing an assault-style rifle. He was armed and carried out the attack quickly, igniting the church soon after. The fire gutted the building, leaving only the foundation. Emergency crews had to pause recovery efforts overnight and plan to resume early the following morning.
Authorities responded within minutes. A Grand Blanc Township police officer and a Michigan Department of Natural Resources officer engaged the suspect and fatally shot him approximately eight minutes after the attack began. The quick response may have prevented additional casualties.
Eight people remained hospitalized Sunday night, one in critical condition. Officials also reported finding suspected explosive devices and evidence that gasoline was used to start the fire. The FBI and ATF are assisting with the investigation, which remains ongoing as authorities assess the scene and search for missing individuals.
Witnesses described terrifying moments as they tried to flee or hide from the gunfire. Kristin Juarez, a church member, thought the steeple collapsed before realizing it was an attack. She hid in a bathroom and was later reunited with her husband. Others tried to help victims despite the chaos and danger.
The motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators are working to determine Sanford’s background and any possible connections to the church or its members.
