Grand Blanc Township, Michigan – A mass shooting and arson attack at a Latter-day Saints church on Sunday has left at least one person dead and nine others wounded, including children.
Police say the death toll may rise as investigators search the ruins of the fire-ravaged building.
Truck Rammed Into Church Before Shooting Began
The attack unfolded at around 10:25 a.m. when a 40-year-old man from Burton drove his truck through the main doors of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Two large American flags were mounted in the truck’s bed.
Gunfire Erupts as Worshippers Rush to Help
Witnesses said congregants initially believed it was a traffic accident. But as members of the church moved forward to assist, the driver pulled out an assault rifle and opened fire on the crowd.
Hundreds Trapped Inside Service
Authorities confirmed that hundreds of worshippers had gathered for Sunday services. The sudden violence sparked panic as people scrambled to escape, with many caught inside as the building was soon engulfed in flames.
Building Engulfed in Flames
Dramatic aerial images showed the church completely consumed by fire. Thick black smoke rose above the leafy Flint suburb as firefighters battled the blaze.
Police Confrontation Ends With Gunman Dead
Grand Blanc police chief William Renye confirmed that the suspect was killed during an exchange of gunfire with a township police officer and a Department of Natural Resources officer. No officers were injured in the confrontation.
Witnesses Describe Chaos After Hymn
A survivor told Fox 2 Detroit that the incident began moments after a congregational hymn. “We thought someone had crashed accidentally, so we went to help. That’s when the shooting started,” he said.
Authorities Urge Public to Stay Away
Emergency officials ordered residents to avoid the area as fire crews and police worked to contain the blaze. Survivors were directed to a reunification pavilion, while the Trillium theatre at Holly and McCandlish was designated as an off-site meeting point.
Federal Agencies Mobilised
Attorney General Pam Bondi said she was receiving regular briefings and confirmed that FBI and ATF agents were being deployed. “Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling,” she wrote.
FBI Director Condemns Attack
FBI Director Kash Patel said on X that the bureau was “tracking reports of the horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church” and had agents at the scene. He called the assault “cowardly and criminal” and extended condolences to the victims.
Michigan Governor Issues Statement
Governor Gretchen Whitmer condemned the violence and praised emergency responders. “My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” she said.
Eyewitness Footage Emerges
Podcaster Anna Matson posted a video from the scene showing heavy smoke and frantic parishioners. She said witnesses described the moment a vehicle ploughed into the church before gunfire erupted.
Children Among the Victims
Matson reported that one of the injured was a young girl who was shot in the back. Police have not confirmed her condition, but community members have been sharing prayers online.
Survivor Recounts Family Tragedy
Matson also spoke with a man from South America who escaped the burning church. He told her his mother remained inside the building after the fire broke out, unable to get out as the smoke spread rapidly.
Authorities Withhold Victim Details
Police said they would release further details on the victims once families were notified. Officials warned the final casualty count could rise once investigators examine the charred structure.
Community in Shock
The Grand Blanc community has been left reeling by the sudden attack. Residents gathered near the site throughout the day, some praying and others waiting anxiously for news of loved ones.
Questions Over Motive
Police have not released a motive for the attack. The suspect has not been formally identified, but officials confirmed he was a local man with no immediate ties to the congregation.
National Outcry Over Violence in Worship Spaces
The attack adds to a series of mass shootings in American places of worship in recent years, sparking renewed calls for stronger protections for religious communities.
Law Enforcement Vows Full Investigation
Federal and state authorities pledged to work closely with local police to determine the attacker’s background, weapons source, and any possible affiliations.
Vigil Planned in Grand Blanc Township
Community leaders announced that a candlelight vigil would be held in the coming days to honour victims and support survivors. Residents have already begun leaving flowers near the site.
Ongoing Investigation
Police said the scene will remain sealed off until fire investigators and federal agents complete their work. The process could take several days due to the extensive fire damage.
