GRAND BLANC, MI – Four people are dead and eight others hospitalized after a gunman opened fire during Sunday morning worship services at a church in Grand Blanc before setting the building ablaze, authorities said.
The shooter, whose identity has not been released, was found dead at the scene of what the FBI is calling an “act of targeted violence” at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints facility.
Grand Blanc Police Chief David Maurice said officers responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 10:30 a.m. Sunday. When they arrived, they found the church building on fire with multiple victims inside and outside the structure.
“This was a deliberate and calculated attack on people simply trying to worship,” Maurice said at a Sunday evening news conference. “We believe the suspect acted alone.”
The eight injured victims were transported to area hospitals, with three listed in critical condition as of Sunday night. The ages and identities of the victims have not been released pending family notification.
FBI Special Agent Sarah Williams said investigators are treating the incident as a hate crime and are examining the suspect’s background and possible motivations. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting with the investigation.
“We are exploring all possible motives, including whether this was religiously motivated,” Williams said.
The Grand Blanc Fire Department extinguished the blaze within two hours, but the church sustained significant damage. Fire Chief Robert Chen said preliminary evidence suggests an accelerant was used to start the fire.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and offered state resources to assist in the investigation and recovery efforts.
“No one should fear for their safety while practicing their faith,” Whitmer said in a statement. “We will find answers and ensure justice is served.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement expressing condolences to the victims’ families and thanking first responders for their quick action.
Grand Blanc, a city of about 8,000 people, is located roughly 60 miles northwest of Detroit. The church has served the community for more than 20 years.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the FBI’s tip line.
