In response to the mass shooting and arson at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, President Donald Trump issued a strong statement framing the incident as part of a broader attack on Christians in the United States.
Trump’s statement, shared on Truth Social, read:
“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!”
These remarks follow reports of a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan, who allegedly drove into the church, opened fire on congregants, and subsequently set the building on fire.
One worshipper has been confirmed dead, with nine others injured; two of the injured are reportedly in critical condition. Local officials caution that additional victims may still be found in the damaged structure.
During a press conference, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye identified the shooter as a 40-year-old male from Burton. According to Chief Renye, the gunman crashed his vehicle into the church and opened fire on the parishioners before being killed in a confrontation with law enforcement, including an armed DNR agent.
Renye confirmed that the ten gunshot victims were taken to local hospitals, with one succumbing to injuries inflicted by the shooter.
Investigators believe the suspect acted alone, armed with an assault rifle. Renye noted that the suspect rammed his vehicle through the church’s front doors before opening fire and deliberately igniting the blaze.
Kash Patel also commented on the situation:
“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.”
Furthermore, Attorney General Pam Bondi expressed her condolences:
“I am receiving briefings about what appears to be a horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan. FBI and ATF agents are en route to the scene now.
Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy.”
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