Attack at Michigan church leaves multiple casualties

By Elyse Apel
The Center Square

At least three are dead, including the gunman, following an attack at a church in Michigan on Sunday morning.

The attack was at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township.

According to local authorities, the gunman rammed the building at 10:25 a.m., began shooting, and then set the building on fire. The 40-year-old male gunman was killed by law enforcement.

According to local authorities, there is no longer a threat to the local community, which is located about 60 miles north of Detroit. The fire has also now been extinguished.

“We are still working this incredibly catastrophic scene,” said the Genesee County Sheriff Office in a statement. “Please be patient as we work diligently to ensure a complete investigation. We have numerous local, state and federal agencies assisting us on scene including the MSP, FBI and the ATF.”

Federal, state and local authorities are all on scene. That includes approximately 100 FBI agents.

“I am receiving briefings about what appears to be a horrific shooting and fire,” said U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. “Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy.”

Multiple victims have been hospitalized and law enforcement expects to find more

“We do believe that we will find additional victims once we have that scene secure,” said Grand Blanc Township Police Department Chief William Renye.

The church building took significant damage from the fire.

“The entire church is on fire,” said Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson early Sunday afternoon. “This is a dynamic scene.”

President Donald Trump addressed the attack in a post on social media.

“I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place,” Trump said. “The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America.”