What was meant to be a peaceful Sunday service in Grand Blanc, Michigan, quickly became a scene of horror when a gunman stormed into a Mormon church, setting it on fire and opening fire on congregants.
At least two people have lost their lives, and several others remain in critical condition.
How the Attack Unfolded
Authorities say the 40-year-old suspect, a man from nearby Burton, drove his truck straight through the front doors of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints before unleashing gunfire with an assault rifle.
Flames soon engulfed the building, trapping terrified worshippers inside.
Police Chief William Renye revealed that at least ten people were rushed to hospitals, with one pronounced dead on arrival and another later dying of injuries.
He also warned that more victims may still be discovered once the building is fully searched.
Chaos Inside and Outside the Church
There were more than a hundred people, including children, gathered for worship when the attack began.
Witnesses described seeing smoke pouring into the sky as emergency responders raced to the scene.
Videos captured the church fully ablaze, while photographs showed the shooter’s silver truck, decorated with two American flags, rammed into the chapel’s front.
Gunman Confronted by Police
The shooter was killed in a gunfight with officers, including one from the Department of Natural Resources.
Police later discovered improvised explosive devices on the property, raising further alarm.
Investigators are now combing through the suspect’s home and phone records in search of a motive.
National Leaders Speak Out
Former President Donald Trump responded swiftly, calling the incident part of an “epidemic of violence” in the United States.
He urged the public to pray for the victims and their families, stressing that attacks on places of worship cannot be tolerated.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also shared her heartbreak, calling the assault “unacceptable” and praising first responders for their quick action.
The Church Responds
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and gratitude for the support shown worldwide.
Church leaders emphasized the importance of faith and prayer in moments of such despair, reminding believers that places of worship should remain sanctuaries of peace.
An Already Mourning Community
The massacre came just a day after the global church lost its president, Russell M. Nelson, who passed away at the age of 101.
Nelson had served as leader since 2018 and was widely respected as the oldest-ever president of the faith.
Fire Brought Under Control
By early afternoon, police confirmed the flames had been contained, though the church itself was almost entirely destroyed.
Officials say the investigation will take time, with the FBI leading the case alongside state and local authorities.
Grief and Unanswered Questions
For now, the Grand Blanc community is left shaken, mourning not only the lives lost in the attack but also the destruction of their house of worship.
Many questions remain about the gunman’s motive, but for families of the victims, the focus is on healing after an unthinkable tragedy.