Journalism of Courage
At least four people were killed and nine others were injured after a gunman opened fire at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, police said on Sunday. The suspect also died at the scene.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye told reporters the shooting took place on Sunday morning and that a fire was also set inside the church. Authorities warned that more victims may still be found.
“There is no ongoing threat to the public,” Renye said. Details on the conditions of the injured have not been released.
President Donald Trump said the FBI was leading the federal investigation and was supporting state and local authorities. “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,” Trump said in a statement. “In the meantime, pray for the victims and their families. This epidemic of violence in our country must end, immediately.”
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said her “heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community.” She added: “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.”
The church, surrounded by a car park and residential areas, sits near a Jehovah’s Witness hall in the town of about 8,000 people, just outside Flint.
The incident came a day after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at the age of 101. According to church protocol, the next leader is expected to be Dallin H. Oaks.
