Thomas Sanford’s Father on Michigan Church Shooting: ‘It’s Been a Nightmare’

The father of Thomas Jacob Sanford has spoken publicly for the first time since his son was identified as the gunman in a deadly Michigan church attack. He described his family as “devastated” and said they have no answers for his son’s actions. The shooting and subsequent fire at a Grand Blanc church left four people dead and eight others injured.

Authorities confirmed the incident occurred when the suspect crashed his vehicle into the building. The attack sent shockwaves through the local community and has prompted a major investigation.

Family Expresses Complete Shock Over Marine’s Actions

Thomas Sanford, the elder, told NBC News his family is in “complete shock.” He remembered his son as a loving husband and father. The father said the decorated former Marine gave no indication he was capable of such violence.

He requested privacy for his family as they grieve. They are mourning the loss of their son and the victims of the tragedy.

In an interview with the Detroit Free Press, the father acknowledged his son had experienced combat. He mentioned his son was “under fire” during his service in Iraq. Despite this, he said his son seemed fine most of the time.

Investigation Focuses on Shooter’s Possible Motives

When asked about a potential motive, the grieving father declined to speculate. He stated the “why” was now irrelevant. “The only thing I can say is that it was my son that did it,” he told the Detroit Free Press. “We’re dealing with it. It’s been a nightmare.”

According to Grand Blanc Police Chief William Reyne, the investigation is ongoing. All churchgoers present during the attack have now been identified. The chief provided this update at a recent news conference.

Officials say Sanford, 40, crashed his Chevy Silverado into the church. He then exited the vehicle and began shooting at attendees with an assault weapon. The church was reportedly filled with hundreds of people at the time.

Investigators are exploring if resentment toward the Mormon church was a factor. They are looking into a past difficult relationship as a possible motive. The probe continues to uncover what led to the violent spree.

The Michigan church shooting has left a community in mourning and a family grappling with an unimaginable loss, highlighting the complex and often hidden nature of such violent acts.

Info at your fingertips

Who was Thomas Jacob Sanford?

Thomas Jacob Sanford was a 40-year-old former U.S. Marine. His father described him as a loving family man prior to the attack.

How many people were hurt in the Michigan church attack?

The shooting and fire resulted in four fatalities. Eight other individuals were injured, with two reported in critical condition.

What weapon was used in the shooting?

Authorities confirmed the suspect used an assault weapon. He fired on churchgoers after crashing his truck into the building.

Has a motive for the shooting been determined?

Investigators have not confirmed a definitive motive. They are looking into his possible resentment toward the church from a past relationship.

How did the police respond to the incident?

Police engaged the suspect in a gunfight outside the church. The suspect was killed during this exchange with officers.

Trusted Sources

NBC News, Detroit Free Press, Grand Blanc Police Department