Grand Blanc Township, Michigan — A Sunday worship service turned into tragedy when a man rammed his pickup truck into a Latter-day Saints church and opened fire on the congregation, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
Vehicle Rammed Into Church Façade
The silver GMC pickup truck, bearing two large American flags, smashed through the brick façade of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shortly after 10:25 a.m. Photographs from the scene showed the vehicle lodged in the entrance as smoke billowed from the building.
Congregation Under Attack
Hundreds of worshippers had gathered inside for the morning service when the assault began. Witnesses reported panic as the driver, a 40-year-old man from nearby Burton, jumped from the vehicle and began shooting.
Gunfire Erupts
Police confirmed that at least 10 people were struck by gunfire. One victim died at the scene, while two others remained in critical condition on Sunday afternoon. Several more were hospitalized with serious injuries.
Chaos Inside the Church
Those who escaped described confusion and terror. Worshippers initially believed the truck crash was an accident until gunshots rang out. Families scrambled for cover as smoke filled the sanctuary.
Gunman Neutralized
Responding officers engaged the attacker in a shootout. Authorities confirmed the suspect was fatally shot during the exchange. His identity has not yet been released.
Church Engulfed in Flames
Investigators said the gunman also set fire to the building before being confronted by police. Aerial images showed the large structure fully engulfed in flames, with thick black smoke visible for miles.
Search for Additional Victims
Emergency crews worked into the evening to bring the blaze under control. Officials warned that more victims may be discovered in the charred ruins once it is safe to enter.
Witness Accounts
One worshipper told local media the attack began just after the opening hymn. “We thought someone had crashed by mistake. Then he pulled out a rifle and started shooting,” the man said.
Police Appeal for Calm
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye urged residents to stay away from the area, saying resources were focused on rescue and recovery. A reunification center was established nearby for families searching for loved ones.
Federal Authorities Respond
The FBI and ATF confirmed agents were dispatched to assist local police with the investigation. Officials said it remains unclear what motivated the attack.
Community in Mourning
Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the incident “heartbreaking and unacceptable,” praising first responders for their swift actions. “Violence in a place of worship is unimaginable,” she said, adding that her office would continue to monitor developments closely.
