Grand Blanc Township, Michigan – Community mourns loss of Navy veteran John Bond and longtime resident Craig Hayden in church shooting
Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, is reeling in grief after a horrific act of violence shattered the peace of a Sunday morning worship service. Four members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints lost their lives when a gunman opened fire during the September 28 service. Among those killed was John Bond, 77, a U.S. Navy veteran who proudly served his country during the Vietnam War, and Craig Hayden, a beloved community member whose death was the first confirmed by family.
For a town known for its quiet neighborhoods and strong sense of fellowship, the attack has left scars that will not soon heal. Parishioners who had gathered for worship suddenly found themselves in the midst of chaos and terror, their sanctuary turned into a crime scene. Families, friends, and neighbors are now mourning together, leaning on faith and community support to process the devastation.
Remembering John Bond
Family members confirmed late Sunday that John Bond was among the victims killed. Bond, a proud Navy veteran, served during the Vietnam War and carried with him the values of loyalty, courage, and service long after leaving the military. He was known in Grand Blanc Township as a kind-hearted man who lived with quiet dignity and deep faith.
Neighbors recall Bond as someone who never hesitated to lend a helping hand, whether shoveling a driveway, checking in on elderly residents, or volunteering his time in the community. “He was the kind of man you could always count on,” one longtime friend said. “His service to his country was only one part of his story—he lived every day in service to others.”
Bond leaves behind a legacy of resilience and compassion, cherished by his family and remembered by a community now grieving the loss of one of its elders.
The First Victim Identified – Craig Hayden
Earlier on Sunday, the first victim to be publicly identified was Craig Hayden, remembered by family as a devoted father-in-law, husband, and friend. Local business owner Terry Green, who operates the family-run Billmeier Camera, confirmed that his father-in-law was among those killed in the shooting.
In a heartfelt message, Green described Hayden as a man who loved his family deeply and valued the simple joys of life. His death leaves a profound void not only in the family but in the wider community where he was respected and admired.
A Community in Shock
The violence at the Grand Blanc Township church has left residents grappling with disbelief. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a cornerstone of local life, a place where families gather not only for worship but for support, fellowship, and a sense of belonging. That such a sacred space was violated in such a brutal way has shaken the entire region.
Authorities have confirmed that four worshippers were killed in the attack, though only two have been identified so far: John Bond and Craig Hayden. Investigators are still piecing together the timeline of events and the motives of the gunman, while families anxiously await updates about their loved ones.
Healing and Moving Forward
Vigils are already being organized across Genesee County to honor the victims. Clergy from different denominations have come together, calling for unity, compassion, and strength in the face of tragedy. The stories of John Bond and Craig Hayden highlight not only the pain of their loss but also the enduring legacies of love, service, and faith they leave behind.
As Grand Blanc Township begins the difficult process of healing, the community remains bound together by grief, resilience, and the determination to honor those who were taken too soon.
