Michigan Church Shooting: Former Marine Thomas Jacob Sanford Identified as Suspect – Live Updates and Key Developments

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Event: Church Shooting

Location: Michigan, specifically grand Blanc Township and Burton (prayer vigil taking place in Burton)

Date: September 29, 2025

Details:

* A shooting occurred at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints ward.
* A family had moved to Flint because of the strong faith community.
* The shooting happened the day after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest president of the Utah-based faith, died.
* The next president is expected to be dallin H. Oaks.
* The church is cooperating with law enforcement.
* There was a lockdown at another ward when news of the shooting spread.
* The shooting occurred during a Sunday service, which is normally a “time of peace and reflection”.
* Peopel were reuniting at trillium NCG Theater.

Key People/Organizations:

* Timothy Jones: Member of another Latter-Day Saints ward
* Russell M. Nelson: Former President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
* Dallin H. Oaks: Expected next president of the Church
* Doug Anderson: Church spokesperson
* FBI: Investigating the shooting
* Pastor Fr Georges Bidzogo: Led a prayer vigil
* AFP via Getty Images: Provider of a photo from the vigil
* AP: Provider of a photo of people reuniting.

What potential red flags in Thomas Jacob Sanford’s background, considering his military service and prior interactions with law enforcement, might have indicated a risk of violence?

Shooting at North Pointe Christian Church in Howell, Michigan

On September 29, 2025, a shooting occurred at North Pointe Christian Church in Howell, michigan, leaving one injured and prompting a swift response from local law enforcement. Authorities have identified Thomas Jacob Sanford, a former Marine, as the suspect. This article provides live updates and key developments surrounding the incident, focusing on the suspect, the victim, the inquiry, and the community response.

Suspect Identified: Thomas Jacob Sanford

Thomas Jacob Sanford,37,is the individual authorities have named as the suspect in the Howell church shooting. Sanford is a former Marine with a documented history.

* Military service: Sanford served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Details regarding his discharge status and specific service record are currently under investigation.

* Prior Incidents: Reports indicate prior interactions with law enforcement, including a previous incident involving a weapon. These past events are now being scrutinized as part of the ongoing investigation into the church shooting.

* Motive: the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators are actively working to determine the factors that led to the attack, exploring potential links to mental health issues, extremist ideologies, or personal grievances.

* Arrest & Charges: Sanford was apprehended shortly after the shooting and is currently in custody. He is expected to face multiple charges, including attempted murder and weapons violations. The Livingston County Prosecutor’s Office will determine the final charges.

Victim Information & Condition

A single victim was injured in the shooting.

* Identity: The victim has been identified as a 40-year-old male security guard employed by the church.

* Injuries: The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the chest.

* Current Condition: As of the latest update, the victim is in stable condition at a local hospital. Medical personnel report he is expected to make a full recovery.

* Heroic Actions: Witnesses have praised the security guard’s speedy thinking and bravery, stating he potentially prevented further casualties by engaging the suspect.

Investigation Details & timeline

The investigation is being led by the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Michigan State Police and the FBI.

1. Initial call: The first 911 calls reporting the shooting came in at approximately 10:15 AM EST on september 29, 2025.
2. Police Response: Deputies arrived on the scene within minutes and promptly engaged the suspect.
3. Suspect Apprehension: sanford was taken into custody without further incident. A weapon, described as a handgun, was recovered at the scene.
4. Evidence Collection: Investigators are meticulously collecting evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic analysis of the weapon.
5. Background Check: A comprehensive background check is being conducted on the suspect, including a review of his criminal history, mental health records, and social media activity.

Community Response & Support

The Howell community has rallied in support of the victim and the North Pointe Christian Church.

* Vigil: A community vigil is planned for the evening of september 30,2025,at the church to honour the victim and offer support to those affected by the shooting.

* Counseling Services: Local mental health organizations are providing counseling services to church members and residents struggling to cope with the trauma.

* Fundraising Efforts: Several fundraising campaigns have been launched to assist the victim and his family with medical expenses and other needs.

* Church Statement: North Pointe Christian Church released a statement expressing gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement and offering prayers for the victim’s recovery. They have temporarily suspended all church activities.

Gun Violence Statistics & Resources

this incident underscores the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States.

* Gun Violence Archive: According to the gun Violence Archive, there have been [insert current statistic as of Sept 29, 2025] mass shootings in the U.S. in 2025.

* Everytown for Gun Safety: Everytown for Gun Safety is a leading association advocating for common-sense gun laws. https://everytownresearch.org/

* Giffords Law Center: Giffords Law Center provides research and legal expertise on gun violence prevention. https://giffords.org/

* National Crisis and Suicide Lifeline: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please reach out to the National Crisis and Suicide Lifeline at 988.

Legal Considerations & Second Amendment Rights

The case raises complex legal questions surrounding gun control, mental health, and Second Amendment rights. Legal experts are closely watching the case to see how it will be prosecuted and what impact it may have on future gun legislation. The debate surrounding responsible gun ownership