A shocking incident unfolded in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday morning as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old Iraq War veteran, allegedly opened fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The tragic event resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to at least eight others. Sanford, who also allegedly set fire to the church, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with responding police officers.
Who was Thomas Sanford?
Military records confirm Sanford's service as a sergeant in the Marine Corps from 2004 to 2008, during which he received several medals. He was deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2007. Prior to his military service, Sanford graduated from Goodrich High School in 2004.
A Family's Struggles
Social media accounts linked to Sanford's family paint a picture of a man with a wife and at least one young son. A GoFundMe page from 2015 reveals the family's financial struggles stemming from their son's diagnosis with Congenital Hyperinsulinism, a rare genetic disorder. The condition required extensive medical care, including a lengthy hospital stay and multiple surgeries.
Motive Remains Unknown
As of now, authorities have not released any information regarding Sanford's motive for the attack. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as law enforcement pieces together the events leading up to the shooting.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to NewsRpt.com for updates.