Camilla Jessen
Identity revealed of gunman who took at least four lives and torched Michigan church.
A deadly attack at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, has left at least five people dead and more than eight others injured, authorities confirm.
Gunman Identified
The suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former U.S. Marine who served from 2004 to 2008 and was deployed to Iraq.
Sanford was shot dead by police after launching the attack.
How the Attack Unfolded
The incident occurred around 10:25 a.m. local time at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
According to Newsner, Sanford allegedly drove a vehicle bearing two U.S. flags through the front doors of the church before opening fire on attendees with an assault rifle.
Arson During the Attack
After firing upon congregants, Sanford reportedly set the church on fire using gasoline, according to James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Detroit Field Division.
A column of smoke was seen rising from the roof before firefighters extinguished the blaze.
Immediate Law Enforcement Response
Police responded to the scene within 30 seconds of the first 911 call, according to Grand Blanc Township Chief William Renye.
Law enforcement confirmed multiple victims, though not all names have been released.
Casualties and Injuries
Two victims were killed by gunfire, while two additional bodies were recovered from the church ruins.
At least ten gunshot victims have been transported to local hospitals, one of whom has died.
Authorities expect that more victims may be found in the building.
Sanford’s Personal Life
Sanford was a husband and father.
His young son has congenital hyperinsulinism, a rare condition causing excessive insulin production.
A GoFundMe page had been established to assist the family financially, reportedly raising around $3,000.
Ongoing Investigation
Investigators continue to examine the scene and the motives behind the attack.
Officials have confirmed that the church fire was deliberately set.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, which may have used AI in the preparation
