At least one person has died and several others were injured after a shooting at a Church of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
The Grand Blanc Township Police Department confirmed that an “active shooter” attacked the church on the morning of Sunday, Sept. 28.
Chief of Police William Renye told CNN during a press conference that the suspect, a 40-year-old man from Burton, “drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church” and fired “several rounds at individuals.”
He added that police shot and killed the suspect, who was armed with an assault rifle, after a brief exchange of gunfire. Two officers were involved in the confrontation — one from the Department of Natural Resources and another from Grand Blanc Township.
The exact number of injured remains unclear, though Renye said 10 people, some in critical condition, were taken to local hospitals.
Authorities reported that the church, located on McCandlish Road, had caught fire. Police later confirmed that the blaze was “contained,” with Renye stating, “We believe that was deliberately set by the suspect.”
Grand Blanc, a small city roughly 60 miles from central Detroit, has been shaken by the tragedy.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reacted to the incident on X, writing, “My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable.” She added, “I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. We will continue to monitor this situation and hold the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement calling the shooting a “tragic act of violence.” The statement noted, “The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
The attack occurred a day after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the Church’s president, who passed away at age 101 on Saturday, Sept. 28. Nelson was the oldest-ever president of the church, having led it since January 2018.
The Grand Blanc Township Police Department did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment on Sept. 28.
