TERROR AT CHURCH: Trump responds after gunman opens fire on congregation, sets church on fire in Michigan

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From CBS News: At least two people are dead and eight others are in the hospital after a shooting during a worship service at a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, on Sunday morning.

According to police, it happened around 10:25 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 4825 McCandlish Road.

Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said in a news conference on Sunday afternoon that the suspect, identified as a 40-year-old man, drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church, exited his vehicle and fired “several rounds” of an assault rifle at hundreds of churchgoers.

Ten people with gunshot wounds were taken to the hospital, where two victims have since died. Renye said “multiple” individuals who were injured are in critical condition, and expects there will be more victims.

After ramming his pickup into the front wall of the church and opening fire on the congregation, the gunman then reportedly set the church on fire.

Police quickly responded to the attack, located the gunman, and shot him dead.

Video footage is going viral on social media of the horrifying scene, as the entire church was seen engulfed in flames.

Churchgoers reportedly fled for their lives through a back door. However officials are fearful that many became trapped by the fire and say the death toll could rise.

X user @Malkowski6April posted drone footage showing the entire church on fire:

President Donald Trump released the following statement on Truth Social:

I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn.

This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released the following statement:

A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available.

The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved.

FBI Director Kash Patel wrote, “We are tracking reports of the horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. @FBI agents are on the scene to assist local authorities. Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act. Our prayers are with the victims and their families during this terrible tragedy.”

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, released a sttement:

Rep. John James (R-Mich.), who is running for governor of Michigan, also wrote, “Liz and I are absolutely horrified by the initial reports coming out of Grand Blanc. On this Sunday, a day meant for worship and peace, such violence is a grave evil. Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire community. We must remain united in faith and resolve against this darkness.”

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