CRIME & LAW

FBI says shooter in deadly Michigan church attack was motivated by hatred toward the Mormon faith

The FBI confirmed Friday that the September attack on a Latter-day Saints chapel in Grand Blanc Township was a targeted assault driven by the gunman’s anti-religious beliefs toward the Mormon community. Authorities say Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, rammed his pickup into the side of the church, opened fire on congregants, and used gasoline to set the building ablaze. Four people were killed—identified by loved ones as Craig Hayden, William “Pat” Howard, John Bond, and Thelma Armstrong—and nine were injured. Sanford was killed by responding officers. Grief has met calls for forgiveness and support across the community and church.

Reviewed by JQJO team

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