Grand Blanc Township, Michigan — The Grand Blanc Township community is reeling from heartbreaking news as family members confirmed that Craig Hayden was among the victims killed during Sunday’s horrific mass shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In a deeply emotional message shared publicly, local business owner Terry Green revealed that his father-in-law, Craig, lost his life in the attack that shook the congregation and surrounding community to its core. Green, who owns Billmeier Camera, a long-standing family-run business in the area, described Hayden as a cherished husband, father, and grandfather — a man whose presence anchored his family in love and faith.
“My dear wife Julie is my number one helper, our bonus daughter Katelyn runs the photo lab, and our lifelong friend Miss Kelly helps with framing and the phones,” Green wrote. “While my wife’s family was at church on Sunday, there was a shooting. My beloved father-in-law, Craig Hayden, was killed. He did not suffer and is at peace with Jesus in heaven. For this, we take solace. The rest of our family’s lives were spared. Others, sadly, were not so lucky.”
Green went on to acknowledge that while their business will continue, operations will be impacted as the family grieves and makes arrangements. “We still have bills to pay, even when our hearts are broken,” he explained, adding that Kelly, their longtime friend and employee, would help keep the store afloat during this devastating time. He asked for patience and understanding from the community as they navigate unimaginable loss.
Hayden’s death was the first confirmed fatality in the aftermath of the attack, which authorities say left at least four people dead, including the gunman, and eight others wounded.
Investigators identified the shooter as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton, Michigan, a former Marine. According to police, Sanford rammed his truck into the church building, stormed inside with an assault rifle, and opened fire on worshippers before setting the sanctuary ablaze. He was later killed in a shootout with responding officers.
The church, which had been filled with hundreds of worshippers — including children — is now considered a total loss. Officials have said crews continue to sift through the charred debris in search of potential additional victims.
For Hayden’s family, the grief is compounded by the sheer shock of violence in a sacred space. Yet amid tragedy, Green expressed gratitude for the compassion and love that has poured in from friends, neighbors, and community members.
“Thank you, friends. I have received many messages expressing your love. It means so much. Hug your loved ones — tomorrow is never promised,” Green wrote.
As Grand Blanc Township and beyond mourn the life of Craig Hayden, his family’s words serve as both a tribute to his memory and a reminder of life’s fragility. He will be remembered not only as a victim of a senseless act of violence but as a man whose love for his family and faith will continue to shine in the lives of those he leaves behind.
