FBI Reveals New Details About Motive in Grand Blanc Church Shooting
Officials confirm the attack that left five people dead in Michigan was a targeted act of violence, but the motive is only now being made public.
GRAND BLANC, Mich. (AP) — The FBI confirmed Friday that the deadly attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, was motivated by the gunman’s anti-religious beliefs toward the Mormon faith.
FBI Detroit Field Office Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Runyon said in a statement that investigators believe the Sept. 28 shooting was a targeted act of violence. “This is a targeted act of violence believed to be motivated by the assailant’s anti-religious beliefs against the Mormon religious community,” Runyon said.
The attack left five people dead, including the assailant, and nine others injured, bringing the total number of victims to 14.
Runyon said more than 100 FBI personnel — including special agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff — have been involved in the investigation, working alongside local, state, and federal agencies such as the Grand Blanc Township Police Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Michigan State Police, the Department of Natural Resources, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
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While the investigation remains ongoing, Runyon said the FBI is focused on supporting victims and the broader Grand Blanc community. “We remember those who are no longer with us and continue to hold in our thoughts those who are still recovering,” she said.
The FBI has created a dedicated website to provide resources and information for those affected by the tragedy.
Runyon also expressed gratitude to first responders and community members who acted quickly during the attack. “Your bravery and heroic actions truly underscore the joint commitment to aiding and protecting the community during times of immediate crisis,” she said.
“This tragedy not only affected the Grand Blanc community but also left a lasting impact on our nation,” Runyon added. “The FBI remains fully committed to doing all that it can to protect the citizens of Michigan and the American people.”
It took over 100 agents 2 months to figure out the gunmans’ motive? Turns out it wasn’t that deep. I had it in 3 seconds. Our tax dollars at work!
My only question is are they doing anything for the family of the shooter? They are victims, too. I don't believe his wife and child expected any of this to happen. I'm sure they were not prepared to lose a father and a husband, regardless of how irrational his feelings were against the Mormons. I understand the child is ill. Does this mean Mom stays home to care for the child? Is she now without an income? She, too, is grieving and so is her child. I understand about care for those who were in the church and those who lost loved ones or had loved ones injured. I also understand that PTSD is a lifetime thing. It doesn't miraculously go away. People learn coping skills to get through it but you never know what might trigger it. I'm sure his wife was bombarded by media. In times of tragedy they are the worst. In times of scandal they are even harsher.