On September 28, 2025, a horrifying attack took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old Iraq war veteran, drove his truck into the church, set it on fire, and opened fire on congregants.
The violent rampage resulted in the deaths of at least four individuals and left several others injured, CNN confirmed. Sanford, who had been battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was shot dead by police in the church parking lot shortly after the attack began.
Authorities continue to search the charred remains of the church, and the number of victims remains uncertain, with as many as seven people still unaccounted for.
Sanford, a father of one, was a supporter of President Donald Trump, with images from his social media showing him wearing a “Make Liberals Cry Again” t-shirt, a slogan associated with conservative political circles. His tragic actions have raised questions about the role his mental health struggles may have played in the violence.
Sanford’s military background and struggles with PTSD
Sanford served in Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2007 to 2008. During his service, he achieved the rank of sergeant and earned several commendations, including the Iraq Campaign Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. After leaving the military, Sanford worked as an automotive mechanic and vehicle recovery operator.
Though Sanford's struggles with PTSD were known to his family and friends, the full extent of his mental health issues was not well-documented. A family friend revealed that Sanford would occasionally make comments that hinted at his PTSD but that it was not openly discussed. His personal life reflected his conservative views, with frequent posts supporting Trump and conservative causes on social media. He was even pictured with his wife and son wearing the “Make Liberals Cry Again” shirt, underscoring his strong political beliefs.
The attack and ongoing investigation
On the morning of the attack, Sanford rammed his silver truck, adorned with American flags, through the front doors of the church. He then opened fire with an assault rifle, targeting congregants, including children. Several churchgoers exhibited remarkable bravery by shielding children and helping others escape to safety. Sanford is believed to have used gasoline or another accelerant to start the fire before fleeing into the parking lot, where he was confronted and killed by police.
The FBI is now leading the investigation, labeling the attack as an act of targeted violence. Authorities have discovered explosive devices at the scene but have not yet confirmed if they played a role in the fire. As the investigation continues, law enforcement is working to determine the motive behind Sanford’s actions. The community is left grappling with the loss of life and searching for answers to the tragic events that unfolded at the church.