Shooting and Fire at Michigan Church Leaves One Dead, Several Injured

A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday in Grand Blanc, Michigan, when a gunman opened fire inside a church, followed by a fire outbreak. The attack left one person dead and at least nine others injured. The shooter was fatally shot by responding police officers. The incident occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located roughly 50 miles north of Detroit. Grand Blanc Police Chief William Renie stated that the building caught fire shortly after the gunfire erupted, but authorities were able to bring the situation under control. There is currently no ongoing threat to the public. Police received emergency calls just before 11:00 AM, and officers arrived at the scene within minutes. By 11:25 AM, the shooter had been neutralized. Details about the victims' conditions have not yet been publicly released. The area surrounding the church, which includes residential neighborhoods and another religious site affiliated with Jehovah’s Witnesses, was evacuated and secured. Law enforcement has increased surveillance in the vicinity to ensure public safety. To assist families and those affected by the violence, authorities have set up two reunification centers—one at a local pavilion and another at a nearby theater - where relatives and survivors can connect. The community remains in shock. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences, saying, “My heart breaks for the Grand Blanc community. Violence has no place anywhere - especially not at places of worship.” The tragedy occurred just a day after the passing of the church's most senior leader, Russell M. Nelson, at the age of 101. According to the church's tradition, Dallin H. Oaks is expected to be his successor. Eyewitness videos circulating on social media show thick plumes of smoke rising from the church building, highlighting the severity of the fire. Local authorities have urged people to avoid the area and refrain from spreading unverified information online.