Three individuals, including the perpetrator, have lost their lives in a tragic incident of mass violence at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where the building has been engulfed in flames.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, was the site of the shooting, with videos showing the church ablaze and reports suggesting the roof is collapsing due to the fire.
Law enforcement officials have revealed that the suspected shooter is identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, although the police are yet to formally confirm his identity. A press conference is scheduled to provide further information shortly.
During the investigation, three improvised explosive devices were discovered in the suspect’s vehicle at the church, leading to heightened security measures. The Michigan State Police Bomb Squad is currently investigating the suspect’s residence in Burton, deploying robots to search for any additional explosives that may pose a threat.
Authorities are still trying to determine whether the explosive devices found were incendiary or purely explosive in nature, with investigations ongoing. Regrettably, a second victim has succumbed to injuries sustained in the church shooting, as confirmed by the police.
Sheriff Renye has stated that law enforcement is actively working to uncover the motive behind the tragic events. The FBI has joined the investigation, dedicating a substantial number of agents to assist in collecting witness statements and evidence related to the incident.
This devastating occurrence at the Grand Blanc church follows the recent passing of the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell M. Nelson, who died at 101 years old in Salt Lake City.
The situation at the church escalated further when a suspicious item, believed to be an improvised explosive device, was discovered on the church premises. A bomb squad has been dispatched to handle the potentially dangerous device.
Law enforcement officers engaged in gunfire with the shooter, resulting in the suspect’s demise. The motive behind the attack remains unknown as investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
Sheriff Renye emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure the scene and locate additional victims, expressing concerns about the number of casualties given the size of the fire and the potential difficulty in evacuating individuals from the church.
The tragic incident has drawn attention and concern from public figures, with President Donald Trump acknowledging the severity of the situation and highlighting the need to address violence in places of worship.
Authorities have reassured the public that there is no lingering threat following the event at the church. Emergency responders are actively managing the situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available on this distressing event.
