GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) — A heartfelt remembrance envelops the community as it mourns those lost in the devastating shooting at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday morning.
Among the four who tragically lost their lives was John Bond, a Navy veteran described by friends and family as a devoted grandfather who cherished spending time with his loved ones. Friends have initiated a fundraising campaign to support Bond’s family during this harrowing time.
The attack unfolded when a Marine veteran, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, allegedly drove his pickup truck into the church, opening fire on congregants. Alongside the fatalities, eight individuals aged between 6 and 78 were injured but are expected to survive, including a father and his young son.
As investigators worked to sift through the debris, the community came together to process the shock and grief of such a senseless act of violence. Sanford was killed in a shootout with police, and authorities continue to probe his motives and whether he had any connection to the church.
“He was a family man. He was a proud Marine. That was not him doing that,” remarked a lifelong friend, conveying the disbelief surrounding Sanford's actions.
“As you can expect, our members are quite shaken in spirit and in body,” said Jeffrey Schaub, bishop of the church, expressing the heavy heart of a community grappling with this tragic event. Despite the sorrow, there has been a significant outpouring of support from various faith communities, showcasing the resilience and unity in facing such dark moments.
Authorities revealed that Sanford had attempted to ignite a fire using gasoline and had brought along explosive devices during the attack.
