A Sunday worship service descended into horror when a gunman opened fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, United States, leaving multiple people dead and the building engulfed in flames.
Police confirmed multiple victims and said the suspected gunman was “down,” though it was unclear whether he had been killed or taken into custody.
According to the BBC, the church building was reported to be “actively on fire,” and authorities urged residents to avoid the area.
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“There are multiple victims and the shooter is down. There is no threat to the public at this time,” the Grand Blanc Township Police Department announced on Facebook. They added that emergency crews are still working at the scene.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “unacceptable.”
“My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable. I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly,” he added.
Attorney-General Pam Bondi said federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), had been dispatched to assist in the investigation.
“Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy,” she posted on social media.
Representative John James, a Michigan Republican, described himself as “horrified” by the incident, saying,
“On this Sunday, a day meant for worship and peace, such violence is a grave evil. Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire community.”
The shooting comes just a day after Russell M. Nelson, the 101-year-old president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away, making the attack especially painful for church members nationwide.
Authorities have not released details on the number of casualties or the motive behind the attack. Investigations are ongoing.