Thomas Jacob Sanford was identified as the suspect behind a tragic and violent attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Here's what is known about him:
Background
Age: 40 years old
Residence: Burton, Michigan
Military Service: U.S. Marine veteran who served in Iraq from 2004 to 20082
Family: Married with a young son who was born with congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI), a rare genetic disorder. A GoFundMe campaign from 2015 raised funds for his son's medical needs
Incident Overview
Date: Sunday morning, September 28, 2025
Location: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Grand Blanc Township
Actions:
Drove a vehicle into the church entrance
Opened fire on congregants with a semi-automatic rifle
Set the building on fire
Engaged in gunfire with police and was fatally shot at the scene
Aftermath
Casualties: At least two people killed, nine others injured
Explosives: Multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were found at the scene and in his vehicle
Investigation: Authorities are exploring motives, including possible hate-based violence or domestic terrorism. Federal agencies like the FBI and ATF are involved
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·Thomas Jacob Sanford was identified as the suspect behind a tragic and violent attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Here's what is known about him:
Background
Incident Overview
Aftermath