Michigan church death toll doubles after Iraq war veteran ‘planted 3 bombs’ and opened fire “this is no longer left vs right. The fight is simple. It’s good vs evil”

Four churchgoers are dead, at least eight more injured, and others remain unaccounted for after a horrific attack at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. A gunman set fire to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sunday morning before opening fire on congregants during a service packed with more than a hundred worshippers.

The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Iraq War veteran Thomas Jacob Sanford of nearby Burton, rammed his vehicle into the front of the building around 10:25 a.m., ignited the blaze with gasoline, and stormed the sanctuary armed with an assault rifle. He fired into the crowd, which included children, while terrified churchgoers shielded youngsters and tried to move them to safety.

Police said two victims were killed by gunfire, while two more bodies were found inside the burnt church after firefighters extinguished the flames. At least seven victims remain hospitalized in stable condition, with one in critical condition. Authorities fear additional victims may still be inside the wreckage.

Sanford was shot dead by officers just minutes after the attack began, during a shootout in the church parking lot. Police confirmed that improvised explosive devices were found at the scene, though it is unclear whether they were used to start the fire. The FBI has taken over the investigation, calling the attack “an act of targeted violence.” No motive has yet been released.

Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye praised the bravery of worshippers who risked their lives to protect children. “They were shielding the children who were present in the church, moving them to safety,” he said.

Images from the scene showed a silver pickup truck with two American flags crashed into the church entrance as flames engulfed the chapel. Videos posted online revealed smoke billowing into the sky and emergency crews rushing to treat the wounded.

President Donald Trump condemned the massacre on Truth Social, calling it part of “the epidemic of violence in our country” and urging Americans to pray for the victims. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also expressed her grief, saying, “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable. My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community.”

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement confirming its cooperation with investigators. “We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families,” spokesperson Doug Andersen said. “In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peace.”

The tragedy struck just one day after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the 101-year-old president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who led the church since 2018.

Authorities are continuing to search the site, investigate Sanford’s background, and review his home and cellphone records for clues to his motive. Families with missing loved ones have been urged to contact police as the community mourns an unspeakable act of violence in what should have been a place of peace.