A gunman opened fire during Sunday services at a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, killing at least two people and injuring several others before being shot by police. The incident occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where hundreds were gathered when a 40-year-old man crashed his pickup truck through the front door, exited the vehicle, and began shooting, according to local Police Chief William Renye.

After the shooting, the suspect allegedly set the church on fire. Flames and smoke were visible for hours as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. Chief Renye indicated that authorities believe there may be more victims in the wreckage. "We do believe we will find some additional victims once we find the area where the fire was," he said.

The motive for the attack remains unclear. Investigators are examining the suspect's home in nearby Burton for further information. Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect was affiliated with the church.

In response to the shooting, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his condolences on social media, praising the FBI for sending 100 agents to assist local authorities. He urged the public to pray for the victims and their families, stating, "THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!"

The shooting has deeply affected the local community. Grand Blanc Mayor John Creasey described the incident as painful for the entire area, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the community. "Although we are two separate governmental units, we are a very cohesive community. This sort of thing is painful for our entire community," he said.

Timothy Jones, a member of a nearby congregation, shared that his children had attended a youth fall festival at the Grand Blanc Township ward the night before the shooting. He recounted how his family received news of the shooting during their own Sunday service, leading to a lockdown at their church. "Sundays are supposed to be a time of peace and a time of reflection and worship," Jones said. He added that the violence at places of worship has become tragically common.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her sorrow for the community, stating, "Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable."

The shooting occurred shortly after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the oldest president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who passed away at the age of 101. Dallin H. Oaks is expected to succeed him as the next president of the church.

Doug Anderson, a spokesperson for the church, stated that they are in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues. "Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer, and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved," he said.

In a show of solidarity, some nurses who were striking over contract negotiations at a nearby hospital left their picket line to assist first responders at the church. Teamsters Local 332 President Dan Glass remarked, "Human lives matter more than our labour dispute."