Grand Blanc Township Police report that on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at least four people were killed and eight others were wounded in a mass shooting and fire at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. The suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of nearby Burton, was killed in a shootout with police.
Grand Blanc Township Police Department Press Release
22:15 ****last update for tonight****
There will be more information posted as it becomes available.
MEDIA: The time for the press conference on Monday will be posted sometime early tomorrow.
We would like to say that we sincerely appreciate the absolute outpouring of support we received from our amazing community and emergency response partners. We are still actively investigating multiple leads and could not have done this alone. Thank you!
19:00 ****UPDATE****
Responders and investigators have obtained search warrants are now entering the church to collect any victim information and evidence.
Many other investigators are continuing to work multiple locations with search warrants to collect information regarding the incident at this location.
We truly appreciate our amazing community that has pulled together and provided food and comfort to the many victims and their families.
MEDIA: Press conference at 8pm at Grand Blanc Twp PD
15:55****UPDATE****
We are still working this incredibly catastrophic scene. Please be patient as we work diligently to ensure a complete investigation. We have numerous local, state and federal agencies assisting us on scene including the MSP, FBI and the ATF.
Please keep the victims, responders, and their families in your prayers.
MEDIA: Reminder: Press Conference at Grand Blanc Twp. PD at 5:00 p.m.
Family Assistance Center information coming soon.
Airspace over the scene is restricted. Please do not attempt to fly drones in the area.
We are working multiple scene to collect information related the icident on McCandlish Rd. Anticipate large police presence at various locations in the county.
14:05 ****UPDATE****
Victims’ families can call the following number if they are looking for family.
Direct family members ONLY please
248-705-7352
We will take your information and get back with you as soon as we possibly can.
13:41 *****UPDATE*****
We are working on a phone number for victims’ families
MEDIA: Next press conference at Grand Blanc Twp PD at 5pm
12:43****UPDATE****All reunification is at Trillium Theater only at this time.
The fire has been contained.
We do not have the names of the victims at his time.
MEDIA: press conference at the Grand Blanc Twp PD at 1:00 pm
There has been an active shooter at the church of Latter-day Saints on McCandlish Rd. There are multiple victims and the shooter is down. There is NO threat to the public at this time.
The church is actively on fire.
For people on site, the reunification site is the pavilion to the north. Offsite reunification will be at the Trillium Theater at Holly and McCandlish.
PLEASE AVOID THE AREA!