Suspect Identified in Grand Blanc LDS Church Attack: 40-Year-Old Burton Man
GRAND BLANC, Mich. — Authorities have identified the suspect behind Sunday’s horrific mass shooting and arson at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan.
Law enforcement confirmed Sanford’s identity after a chaotic and deadly scene that left at least 10 people shot, two confirmed dead, and the church building engulfed in flames. Officials fear the casualty count may rise as investigators continue searching the heavily damaged structure.
Police Presence in Burton
Shortly after the attack, multiple police units converged on 4156 Atherton Road in Burton, a residence listed in public property records as belonging to Sanford. The home has been cordoned off as investigators scour the property for evidence that may shed light on Sanford’s actions and motives.
Records further show that Sanford owned a 2008 GMC Sierra pickup truck, which bore veteran license plates. Witnesses and video footage confirm that the same truck was used in the assault.
How the Attack Unfolded
The tragedy began during Sunday morning worship services at the Grand Blanc LDS Church, located at 4285 McCandlish Road.
According to authorities, Sanford rammed his truck into the church’s front entrance, shattering the glass doors and scattering congregants. He then exited the vehicle armed with an assault-style rifle and opened fire inside the sanctuary.
Witnesses reported scenes of terror as worshippers dove for cover. Several elderly men were seen lying on the ground outside, and at least 10 people were struck by gunfire. Two of those victims have been confirmed dead, including one who succumbed to injuries at the hospital.
Fire and Escalation
After firing on church members, Sanford allegedly set the building on fire. Fire spread rapidly through the structure, eventually leading to partial roof collapse. Drone footage captured heavy smoke rising from the sanctuary as fire crews battled the blaze well into the afternoon.
Police said Sanford was ultimately shot and killed by officers outside the church as flames consumed the building. Video from the scene shows his body lying on the ground near the burning structure.
Bomb Squad Investigation
Scanner traffic from Grand Blanc revealed additional concerns: a beeping sound coming from Sanford’s truck. The noise raised fears of an improvised explosive device (IED), prompting bomb squad units to respond.
Authorities have since warned first responders to keep their distance from the vehicle until it can be fully secured. As of Sunday afternoon, bomb technicians were still working to neutralize a suspicious item located on church property.
Scale of the Tragedy
Police estimate that hundreds of people were inside the church at the time of the attack. Several remain unaccounted for, and investigators fear additional victims may still be trapped within the collapsed sections of the building.
At least 15 to 20 emergency and law enforcement vehicles responded to the crisis, including marked patrol cars, unmarked investigative units, and specialized response teams. South Saginaw Road and surrounding areas remain sealed off to the public as the investigation continues.
Community in Shock
The Grand Blanc community, home to about 8,000 residents, is reeling from the attack. Families have gathered at designated reunification sites, anxiously waiting for news of loved ones.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement calling the events “heartbreaking and horrifying,” vowing that the state will provide every resource available to assist survivors, families, and investigators.
Summary of Events
- Suspect: Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan
- Vehicle: 2008 GMC Sierra with veteran license plates
- Method: Rammed truck into church entrance, opened fire with assault-style rifle, then set building on fire
- Casualties: At least 10 shot, 2 confirmed dead, others missing
- Outcome: Sanford shot dead by police outside the church
- Ongoing Concerns: Fire damage, possible explosive device in truck, missing victims
This remains a developing story. Officials are expected to provide additional updates at a press conference later today, including victim identities, casualty numbers, and details of the ongoing bomb investigation.
