Multiple individuals were injured in a shooting incident at a Mormon church in Michigan, with the shooter being neutralized, as confirmed by authorities on Sunday. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, situated approximately 80 kilometers north of Detroit, was the location of the shooting incident, which also resulted in a fire at the church premises.
Local law enforcement mentioned that there is no longer a threat to public safety, although specific information regarding the conditions of the victims has not been disclosed. Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson informed that the area has been evacuated, and both local and federal officials are present on the scene to manage the situation.
Sheriff Swanson described the church as engulfed in flames, emphasizing the complexity of the ongoing situation. Further details are expected to be released by authorities as the incident is actively managed.
The church, surrounded by a parking area and expansive lawn, is positioned near residential neighborhoods and a Jehovah’s Witness church in Grand Blanc, a community of about 8,000 residents located just outside Flint.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed sorrow for the Grand Blanc community, condemning any form of violence, particularly within a place of worship. The shooting incident coincided with the passing of Russell M. Nelson, the oldest president in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, at the age of 101. Dallin H. Oaks is anticipated to succeed as the next president of the Mormon church following established church procedures.