GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, MI – The tragedy that unfolded at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, on Sunday, October 1, 2025, claimed four lives, including that of Thelma Armstrong, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend. Armstrong, originally from Klerksdorp, South Africa, was attending worship services with her daughter and other family members when the devastating attack occurred.

The Attack at the Church

At approximately 10:25 a.m. on Sunday morning, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, a resident of Burton, Michigan, drove his pickup truck into the front entrance of the church. Once inside the premises, Sanford opened fire on the congregants using an assault-style rifle. The attack left four people dead and eight others injured. In addition to the gunfire, Sanford set the building ablaze, causing the roof to collapse and further devastating the structure.

The attack was witnessed by many, including Armstrong’s daughter, who was present during the chaos. Emergency responders were quick to arrive at the scene, but the church building is now a total loss. Search-and-rescue teams continue to sift through the debris, ensuring no further victims are left unaccounted for.

The Life and Legacy of Thelma Armstrong

Thelma Armstrong was a respected member of her community, both in South Africa and in the United States. She had immigrated to the U.S. in 2019 and settled in Grand Blanc Township, where she became a devoted member of the local LDS congregation. In her hometown of Klerksdorp, Armstrong was known for her role as a general manager at Foodzone, where she was regarded with high respect for her work ethic and leadership.

Friends and family describe Armstrong as a person of strength, love, and faith. She was dedicated to her children and grandchildren, always putting the needs of her loved ones first. Her passing has left a profound hole in the hearts of those who knew her.

“Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her family will never be forgotten,” said a close family friend. “She was a woman who loved deeply and touched the lives of everyone around her. Her absence leaves a void that will never be filled.”

Armstrong’s family, both in the U.S. and South Africa, has been left devastated by the loss. In addition to her children and grandchildren, Armstrong is mourned by friends and loved ones who were fortunate to know her. Her family has launched a fundraising appeal to help cover the expenses for her funeral and memorial services, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received during this tragic time.

The Gunman: Thomas Jacob Sanford

The gunman, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, was shot and killed during an exchange of gunfire with responding officers. Sanford, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served from 2004 to 2008, including a deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom, had a history of prior arrests for burglary and operating while intoxicated. He was also known as a mechanic and vehicle recovery operator.

Sanford’s background as a military veteran has raised questions about his possible motives, and authorities are investigating whether his time in service and subsequent challenges might have played a role in his actions. The FBI, ATF, and local law enforcement are working together to probe Sanford’s background and determine the factors that led to the violent attack.

Sanford’s family, meanwhile, has expressed shock and disbelief at the events, noting that they had no indication he would ever commit such an act of violence. The tragedy has raised difficult questions about the psychological impact of military service and the potential for veterans to suffer from undiagnosed mental health issues.

A Shared Tragedy: Mass Shootings in the U.S.

The attack at the Grand Blanc LDS Church follows closely on the heels of another mass shooting in Southport, North Carolina, where a Marine veteran opened fire at a bar, killing three people and injuring eight others. The fact that both incidents involved veterans of the Iraq War has led to widespread speculation about potential links between the two tragedies. Federal authorities have stated they are reviewing the broader implications of these incidents, including whether there are common factors influencing the actions of military veterans who have been involved in such violent acts.

As these two mass shootings unfold, there is growing concern about the well-being of military veterans returning from service and the challenges they may face reintegrating into civilian life. Experts have long warned that mental health support for veterans is critical, yet many feel that such services are insufficient or underutilized.

Community Response and Support

In the wake of this horrifying attack, the community in Grand Blanc Township is coming together to mourn the victims and offer support to their families. A vigil is planned in memory of the victims, and local organizations are providing grief counseling to those affected by the violence. Many members of the LDS congregation have expressed their determination to honor the memory of the victims by continuing to support one another in the face of this tragedy.

“We will stand strong together as a community and support each other as we heal from this unimaginable loss,” said a member of the Heaton Park Hebrew Congregation. “While we mourn, we also know that the strength of our faith and the love we share will help us through this time of darkness.”

The tragedy has also sparked discussions about the importance of addressing mental health issues in both civilian and military populations. Mental health professionals are calling for greater awareness and intervention programs to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.

Investigation and the Path Forward

The investigation into the motives behind Sanford’s attack is still ongoing. Authorities are working to piece together the details of his life leading up to the incident, examining everything from his military background to any possible signs of mental distress. As the investigation continues, the local community is left to reflect on the tragedy and its implications, both locally and nationally.

This tragedy, which occurred on a sacred day for many in the Jewish community, serves as a painful reminder of the risks faced by individuals and communities in the face of unchecked violence. It underscores the need for stronger gun control measures, better mental health support for veterans, and a collective effort to prevent future acts of terror.

Conclusion: A Call for Unity and Action

As the victims of the Grand Blanc LDS church shooting are mourned, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and the community. Thelma Armstrong, along with the other victims, is remembered for her kindness, her dedication to family, and her faith. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the work that remains to combat hate, violence, and mental health struggles within the U.S. military and beyond.

The community is committed to healing, standing in solidarity with the families affected, and ensuring that future tragedies are prevented. It is a call for reflection on how to better support those who serve in the military, address issues of mental health, and create a safer, more compassionate society.

Support and Resources

For those looking to support the Armstrong family and other victims, donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign established for funeral expenses. Local organizations are also offering counseling services to those affected by the tragedy, and the community is rallying together to help the families navigate this difficult time.