What We Know on Thomas Jacob Sanford, Suspect in the Michigan Church Shooting

Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, has been identified as the man behind the deadly shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, on September 28, 2025. The attack killed four people and injured eight others, including children and elderly worshippers. Authorities confirmed Sanford died after an exchange of gunfire with police behind the church.

Officials have revealed Sanford’s troubling past, including a criminal record and military background. The FBI is now leading the investigation, treating the incident as an act of targeted violence while continuing to search for a motive.

Thomas Jacob Sanford’s Background and Criminal History

Sanford lived in Burton, Michigan, about six miles from the church. Police records show previous arrests for burglary and operating while intoxicated (OWI). Authorities said he rammed his Chevy Silverado into the church entrance before opening fire with an assault-style weapon. He also set the building ablaze using an accelerant, though officials are still examining how the fire was started.

Marine Corps records confirm Sanford served from 2004 to 2008, including a deployment to Fallujah, Iraq, under Operation Iraqi Freedom. He achieved the rank of sergeant and earned several medals, including the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal and the Iraq Campaign Medal. His military experience included vehicle recovery and mechanics.

The FBI has interviewed over 100 witnesses since the attack. Acting Special Agent in Charge Reuben Coleman said agents worked overnight to follow leads and gather information about Sanford’s possible motivation. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer urged the public not to speculate while the investigation continues.

Authorities reported that three victims were hospitalized due to smoke inhalation from the fire and five were treated for gunshot wounds. Two people remain in serious condition at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Reyne condemned the shooting as “an evil act of violence.”

Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation

The Grand Blanc Township community is reeling from the tragedy. The church building was destroyed, leaving members without a place of worship. Local officials said all individuals present during the attack have been accounted for. Support groups and crisis counseling are being organized for survivors and families.

FBI teams are focusing on Sanford’s history, including possible personal struggles and whether his past criminal activity or military experiences played a role. Officials have confirmed no link so far between the attack and political affiliations, despite social media images of Sanford wearing a “Trump 2020” shirt in the past. They continue to collect electronic evidence and witness testimonies.

The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities have not released a clear motive behind the attack, but they emphasize the focus is on ensuring safety, supporting victims, and uncovering any warning signs that might have been missed about Thomas Jacob Sanford.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was Thomas Jacob Sanford?

Sanford was a 40-year-old Michigan man, former Marine sergeant, with a past criminal record of burglary and OWI.

Q2: What happened at the Michigan church?

Sanford rammed his truck into a Latter-day Saints church, opened fire, and set the building on fire. Four died and eight were injured.

Q3: Was Sanford arrested before?

Yes. Authorities confirmed prior arrests for burglary and operating while intoxicated.

Q4: Did Sanford have a military background?

Yes. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, including deployment to Iraq.

Q5: Has the FBI found a motive?

No clear motive has been confirmed. Investigators continue to analyze his past and interview witnesses.