One Dead, Nine Injured in Shooting at Mormon Church in Michigan: Police

One Dead, Nine Injured in Shooting at Mormon Church in Michigan: Police

Grand Blanc Township, Mich. September 12, 2025 A Sunday service at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township turned into chaos when a gunman opened fire, leaving one person dead and nine others injured, according to local authorities. The church building later caught fire, though officials said it was not immediately clear if the blaze was directly linked to the attack.

What Happened

Police say the shooting began shortly after 11 a.m., when congregants were gathered inside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Perry Road. Witnesses reported hearing a series of rapid gunshots before members rushed for the exits.

Responding officers engaged the suspect within minutes. “The shooter is down and no longer a threat,” Grand Blanc Township Police Chief Mark Wilkins said at an afternoon press conference, though he declined to specify whether the suspect was killed or taken into custody.

Casualties and Fire

Authorities confirmed one fatality at the scene and said at least nine others were transported to local hospitals with gunshot wounds ranging from minor to critical.

Not long after the shooting, flames engulfed part of the building. Firefighters were still working to contain the blaze hours later. Investigators said it was too soon to determine whether the fire was intentionally set or caused by the gunfire.

Community in Shock

The attack has shaken the Grand Blanc community, a suburb just south of Flint. “This is a peaceful congregation, they were gathered to worship, not to face violence,” said Township Supervisor Scott Bennett. Vigils were already being organized by interfaith groups in the area by Friday evening.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued a brief statement calling the events “heartbreaking” and urging prayers for the victims and their families.

Broader Context

The incident adds to a troubling pattern of violence targeting houses of worship across the country. Religious leaders have long expressed concern about the vulnerability of congregations, especially as debates over gun access and security continue to intensify.

Law enforcement officials said the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are assisting in the investigation. No motive has yet been announced.

Next Steps

Police urged patience as they piece together a timeline of the events. “We know emotions are running high,” Chief Wilkins said, “but it’s important that we allow investigators to do their work and provide clear answers.”

Officials plan to release the names of the victims once families have been notified.