FBI Detroit Update on Shooting and Fire at Grand Blanc LDS Church

The FBI continues investigating the horrific attack on innocent victims at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc. The subject suspected of committing the attack has been identified as Thomas Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan. More than 100 FBI personnel, including special agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff in Michigan and across the Bureau, throughout multiple days, continue to collaborate with the Grand Blanc Township Police and Fire Departments; Genesee County Sheriff’s Office; Michigan State Police; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the U.S. Attorney’s Office; and additional partners. FBI and law enforcement partners, including FBI victim specialists, conducted numerous interviews with witnesses, community members, and those who may have information related to this investigation. Victims and Individuals Impacted Deceased: 5 (including the subject) Injured (not including deceased): 8 Total deceased and injured: 13 Victim Services: The FBI’s Victim’s Services Division (VSD), alongside local, state and federal partners assisted and continue to assist victims, families and the community with resources and support. Please click on this link for further assistance: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/grand-blanc-lds-church-shooting-victim-resources Timeline of Events On Sunday, September 28, 2025, around 11:00 a.m. Eastern time, the FBI received reports of a possible active shooter at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Grand Blanc Township Police Department confirmed an active shooter, who was deceased, and reported multiple victims. FBI Detroit deployed resources to the incident in support of local law enforcement. As of today, members from the FBI are present at and near the scene, performing various law enforcement activities and continuing the investigation. Information on Subject The preliminary investigation indicates he was a former member of the United States Marine Corps, and a resident of Burton, Michigan. FBI Role and Investigative Process Special Agent Bomb Technicians (SABTs): Working alongside the Michigan State Police and the ATF’s bomb, cadaver, and casings K9s, FBI Detroit SABTs cleared the structure and surroundings of the church and the subject’s truck to confirm the scene was safe for processing and evidence collection. Evidence Response Team (ERT): Members from the FBI Detroit ERT worked tirelessly, to process the scene by collecting and preserving evidence, since their deployment on Sunday. The ERT concluded their search and evidence collection yesterday. Computer Analysis and Response Team (CART): The FBI CART team continues around the clock to process all the digital evidence and make those available to the investigative teams. Arson Investigation: The scene was turned over to the ATF National Response Team to continue their origin and cause investigation. Message to the Michigan Community and Individuals Affected Throughout America The FBI recognizes the time passed since the incident and appreciates the community, as well as our media partners, for their patience as we continue to investigate this horrific incident. While questions remain regarding the motive involving this tragedy, we ask that we are provided the opportunity to thoroughly investigate all information learned, provide clear facts and circumstances, and provide support to those affected. Anyone having information related to the Grand Blanc LDS Church shooting is still encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.