FBI Probes Michigan Church Shooting

Published: 29 September 2025. the English Chronicle Desk

Authorities in Michigan are investigating a shooting incident at a church, which left multiple worshippers injured and prompted an immediate federal response. The attack occurred during services at a congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and investigators have been working to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the suspect.

The suspect, identified as Sanford, is reported to be a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, according to information relayed by CBS, the BBC’s US partner. Law enforcement agencies are conducting a thorough search of his property while examining his cell-phone records to establish potential reasons behind the attack.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation. Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit field office, Reuben Coleman, confirmed that crisis response teams, bomb technicians, and other specialized units have been deployed to secure the scene and assist in gathering evidence. In addition, Grand Blanc police reported that 100 FBI agents are actively involved in the investigation.

Michigan State Police spokeswoman Kim Vetter noted that officers have also responded to several other bomb threats at multiple locations across the state. “We’ve responded and cleared those locations,” she said, emphasizing that the broader area was being monitored to prevent further incidents.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement confirming that a gunman opened fire during worship services. “Multiple individuals were injured,” the statement read. “We pray for peace and healing for all involved.” The church has urged the community to support the victims and their families during this difficult time.

The incident drew attention at the highest levels of government. President Donald Trump confirmed he had been briefed on the shooting and reaffirmed that the FBI would lead the federal investigation. Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, he described the attack as “yet another targeted assault on Christians in the United States of America,” underscoring concerns about religiously motivated violence.

US Attorney General Pam Bondi commented on X, stating she had received updates on “what appears to be a horrific shooting and fire” at the church. She described the event as “heartbreaking and chilling,” and called on the public to pray for the victims and their families.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer strongly condemned the attack. “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” she said, noting that she was closely monitoring the evolving situation. Her office has been coordinating with law enforcement to ensure that safety measures are in place and that those affected receive immediate support.

The shooting also drew reactions from political and community leaders connected to the Mormon faith. Mitt Romney, former US senator from Utah and one of the most prominent Mormon politicians in the United States, described the incident as a tragedy. “My brothers and sisters and their church are targets of violence. Praying for healing and comforting,” Romney said, highlighting the wider sense of vulnerability felt by religious communities in the aftermath of the attack.

Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid the area as investigations proceed. While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, officials have stated that all leads are being thoroughly pursued. The combination of the suspect’s military background, the targeting of a religious institution, and the presence of additional threats in the region has led federal and local agencies to treat the case with the highest priority.

This incident is one of several recent attacks on places of worship across the United States, drawing national attention to the security and safety of religious communities. Law enforcement agencies are working to identify any connections or warning signs that could prevent similar attacks in the future, while providing support for the injured and those traumatized by the events.

The FBI’s continued investigation will focus on gathering forensic evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the suspect’s communications and activities in the lead-up to the attack. Federal and state authorities are also coordinating to ensure that any potential risks to nearby communities are assessed and mitigated.

In the meantime, local and national leaders are calling for unity and support for victims and their families. Community organizations and church leaders have urged calm and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of coming together in the aftermath of a tragedy that has shaken both the local congregation and the broader public.