GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, MI – The gunman who killed four people at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints chapel in Michigan had become increasingly agitated when discussing the Mormon faith in the days before the attack, according to witnesses and law enforcement officials.
Thomas Sanford, 40, opened fire at the Grand Blanc Township church before being killed by responding police officers. The FBI is investigating whether hatred toward members of the Mormon faith motivated the Sunday attack.
Kris Johns, a local council candidate, told investigators he spoke with Sanford several days before the shooting. During their conversation, Sanford became “unhinged” when the topic turned to the Mormon church. Sanford reportedly claimed some church members wanted him to remove his tattoos and made references to the Mormon temple “sealing” ceremony.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed federal involvement in the investigation, stating the FBI is examining evidence that Sanford “hated people of the Mormon faith.” Genesee County prosecutor David Leyton said his office is seeking search warrants for Sanford’s vehicles, home and electronic devices to determine a definitive motive.
Sanford served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, according to military records. Neighbors described him as someone who kept to himself but was known for driving a pickup truck decorated with a deer skull, antlers and American flags.
Kara Pattison, a family friend, reported seeing Sanford driving erratically two days before the attack. She said his behavior seemed unusual but did not believe he posed an immediate danger to others.
Investigators have not confirmed whether Sanford had any prior connection to the church or its congregation. He lived next to Eastgate Baptist Church but never attended services there, according to church officials. It remains unclear what specific interactions, if any, Sanford had with members of the Latter-day Saints community.
The shooting occurred during Sunday services, with multiple families present at the time of the attack. Church officials have not released the names of the victims but confirmed none were church leadership. The congregation has been offered counseling services through both church and county resources.
Law enforcement officials said Sanford entered the building armed with a handgun and opened fire in the main chapel area. Multiple police agencies responded within minutes, and officers engaged Sanford inside the church. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement expressing grief over the loss of life and gratitude for the rapid police response. The church said it is cooperating fully with investigators and providing support to affected families.
The incident has raised concerns about security at houses of worship across Michigan. Several religious organizations have announced plans to review their security protocols in response to the attack.
