FBI Leads Investigation and Response
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead in the investigation and has sent rapid response, bomb technicians, and additional special agents to the area.
Reuben Coleman, acting special agent in charge of the Detroit field office, confirmed the FBI’s leadership position, stating the agency’s primary focus was to secure the area and support the local authorities.
Michigan State Police spokeswoman Kim Vetter stated officers were responding to additional bomb threats at various locations and reassured the public that those locations had been cleared as safe. Grand Blanc police stated that roughly 100 FBI agents were dispatched to facilitate the large-scale investigation.
Records show that the suspect, referred to as Sanford, was a veteran of the Marine Corps, which has raised additional questions as investigators continue to sort through the conditions of the case. Church Acknowledges Shooting and Officials Respond to the Incident.
In an official statement, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints confirmed that a gunman opened fire during one of the organization’s Sunday services, wounding several people. The church expressed sorrow, saying: “We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
Political leaders and officials responded strongly to the tragedy. President Donald Trump said he was briefed as soon as he could and added that the FBI would handle the federal investigation, as he characterized the situation as “yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America,” in a post to his social media platform.
US Attorney General Pam Bondi expressed her grief when she tweeted: “Horrific shooting and fire at Church today.” She went on to say, “Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please pray with me for the victims of this terrible tragedy.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer described the violence as “unacceptable, especially in a place of worship,” while saying she was actively “monitoring the situation.”
Former senator Mitt Romney, one of the most important Mormon political figures, called the shooting a “tragedy” and prayed for healing. He said, “My brothers and sisters and their church are targets of violence. Praying for healing and comforting."
Search for Motive and Ongoing Protection
As police continue their work, investigators are reviewing Sanford’s background (including military service and communications) to form a motive. Although investigators conducted searches of Sanford’s property and phone records, no details have been released about what they found.
Authorities have rapidly responded to reports of possible threats, focusing on ensuring safety for the community. While the church community continues to recover from the attack, officials at the state and federal levels have committed to standing with those affected to keep the victims safe.
This event has made clear the vulnerability of places of worship, calling into question the safety and security, and should bring about solidarity among communities of faith.
As the FBI leads the investigation with literally hundreds of officers involved, this remains an active investigation as the community members mourn and learn what else they can do.
