On September 28, tragedy struck during a Sunday service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, a suburb of Flint. According to police, a 40-year-old suspect drove his vehicle into the church before opening fire on worshippers.
The attack left ten victims with gunshot wounds, one of whom was later pronounced dead. The remaining nine were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Police also believe the suspect attempted to set the church on fire, though the blaze was extinguished by authorities.
Law Enforcement Response
Responding officers quickly engaged the suspect, who was ultimately shot and killed at the scene. Officials confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public, though the area remains an active crime scene as investigations continue.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has taken the lead in the federal investigation, working in coordination with state and local officials to determine the motive and gather evidence.
Statements from Officials
Former President Donald Trump addressed the shooting in a post on Truth Social, calling it a “horrendous shooting” and emphasizing that the FBI had “immediately responded to the scene.”
Trump also described it as a “targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America” and urged Americans to pray for the victims and their families.
Grand Blanc Township Supervisor Scott Bennett expressed the community’s grief during a press briefing:
“This kind of violence doesn’t happen in our community, and we are heartbroken that it came to Grand Blanc Township. And we’re going to do everything we can to support the families, the victims and our community getting through this situation.”
Community Impact and Next Steps
The devastating incident has shocked residents of Grand Blanc Township, a community unaccustomed to large-scale violence. As the FBI and local police continue their investigation, questions remain about the suspect’s motive and how the attack was planned.
Authorities have pledged transparency and ongoing updates, while community leaders and faith groups rally to support the victims and their families in the wake of this tragedy.
