Law enforcement provides response timeline on Grand Blanc church tragedy

GRAND BLANC, Mich. (WNEM) – On Friday, Oct. 3, law enforcement provided the response timeline for the tragedy that took place on Sept. 28 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc:

• 10:25:32 - 911 call comes in from someone in the church who got shot in the stomach 
• 10:25:48 - police dispatched 
• 10:27:46 - first officer arrives (1:58) DNR officer
• 10:28:54 - GB Township officer arrives (3:06) 
• Shooter is neutralized :37 later

There was a total of 3:43 from the first call to the neutralization of shooter.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Federal and local law enforcement confirmed that there are no more victims from the tragedy that occurred at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on McCandlish Road.

The medical chief of staff at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital said that the hospital received patients ranging from ages six to 78. Five had gunshot wounds, and three had injuries from smoke inhalation. One of the victims suffering from smoke inhalation remains intubated.

Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said that five people, including the suspect, are dead and eight were injured. Renye added, from what they know, everyone is accounted for.

Renye said this was an evil act of violence, and it does not define the community of Grand Blanc.

“Together, we will build a stronger community,” said Renye.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer said during the press conference that churches are places we go to feel connected, safe and to be together. The Governor went on to say what happened was a heartbreaking tragedy, and the state of Michigan has Grand Blanc’s back during this time of grief.

Whitmer cautioned that speculation is unhelpful, and even dangerous.

Renye said that the suspect, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob “Jake” Sanford, had been arrested in the past for burglary and operating while intoxicated. Officials confirmed that he was an ex-marine, and he died in a shootout with police.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge James Deir said a national response team was brought in to investigate. They discovered improvised explosive devices (IEDs) after the tragedy.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent Reuban Coleman said it remains an active targeted violence investigation. Special agents have interviewed over 100 victims and witnesses. The FBI is leading the case and is continuing to try and determine a motive. Tips can be submitted at tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Renye said the family assistance center is open Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is located at 801 Health Park Boulevard in Grand Blanc.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) said the National Disaster Distress Helpline is providing immediate crisis counseling to people affected by the tragedy. Call 1-800-985-5990 to receive assistance.

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