Michigan Church Fire Shooting Claims Five Lives

(MENAFN) Emergency responders have uncovered two additional bodies within the wreckage of a Mormon church that was set on fire amid a violent incident on Sunday in Michigan.

This grim discovery increases the total number of deceased to five — four church members and the assailant, who was fatally shot during an exchange of gunfire with law enforcement officers.

Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye shared with the press that both of the newly found victims had sustained gunshot injuries.

“Including the suspect, there are five deceased persons from this tragic incident,” he confirmed.

Chief Renye also commended the rapid response of emergency personnel, noting they arrived on the scene within just 30 seconds of the initial emergency call.

At present, seven individuals are receiving treatment in the hospital and are reported to be in stable condition, while one person remains in critical condition.

Authorities are continuing their meticulous search through the remains of the church, which was completely destroyed in the blaze.

Renye labeled the building “a total loss due to the fire,” and indicated that some individuals are still missing.

“We are in recovery mode,” he stated, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to account for all affected.

Officials have identified the perpetrator as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old man from Burton. Investigators say he used gasoline to deliberately start the fire.

Sanford previously served in the military as a Marine sergeant and was deployed in Iraq between 2007 and 2008.

According to the Marine Corps, Sanford had been honored with several commendations, including the Iraq Campaign Medal and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.

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