Two people, including the alleged shooter, nine wounded; this at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Michigan

 

Two people, including the alleged shooter. Nine wounded. 

This just happened around 10:25 a.m. in Grand Blanc, Michigan. These are just some basic details from local and national media. I will update and edit if needed as official sources release more information.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was full with hundreds of people attending services. About 10:25 a.m, a gunman rammed a vehicle into the church and opened fire with an assault rifle, "firing several rounds at individuals within the church,"  Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said during a press conference.

Authorities found a suspicious item on the church property. Law enforcement said the alleged shooter intentionally set a fire that grew into a large blaze. Police believe they may find additional victims when it is safe to enter the building. Officers exchanged gunfire with the alleged shooter.

The Grand Blanc Township Police Department posted this on Facebook and the times in the FB post are in the local time zone.

"13:41 *****UPDATE*****

We are working on a phone number for victims familes

MEDIA: Next press conference at Grand  Blanc Twp PD at 5pm

12:43****UPDATE****All reunification is at Trillium Theater only at this time. 

The fire has been contained. 

We do not have names of victims at his time.

MEDIA: press conference at the Grand Blanc Twp PD at 1:00 pm

There’s has been an active shooter at the church of Latter Day Saints on McCandlish Rd. There are multiple victims and the shooter is down. There is NO threat to the public at this time. 

The church is actively on fire.

For people on site, the reunification site is the pavilion to the north. Offsite reunification will be at Trillium theater at Holly and McCandlish . 

PLEASE AVOID THE AREA!!"

Los Angeles Police Department and the New York City Police Department are increasing patrols out of an abundance of caution around places of worship.

Authorities have confirmed Thomas Jacob Sanford as the suspect, a Marine veteran. No criminal record. Earned several awards while he was in service.

Doug Andersen, spokesperson for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued the following statement to media.

“A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available."

“The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families."

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”

Two more bodies were discovered in the chapel making the total number of fatalities 4.