A gunman killed at least four worshippers and wounded eight at a Mormon church in Michigan on Sunday. The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, had a sign outside his house with Donald Trump’s last name, according to public records. Sanford was shot by police and died shortly after the attack. President Trump described the shooting as an “act of targeted violence” but refused to provide details on the motive.
Sanford, 40, had a history of anti-Mormon statements, including saying the religion was the “antichrist”. He also signed petitions for efforts to restrict abortion and repeal pandemic emergency powers in Michigan. Sanford joined the US Marines in 2004 and worked as an automotive mechanic before being deployed to Iraq.
The FBI is investigating the motive behind the attack, which has raised concerns about targeted violence against Christians. The incident has sparked a debate about the role of politics and ideology in violent acts.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/29/mormon-church-shooting-trump-sign