The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) strongly condemns the recent mass shooting that targeted the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. This senseless act of violence, committed on Sunday, September 28, 2025, claimed the lives of four innocent individuals and left eight others wounded. The alleged shooter, Thomas Jacob Sanford—a former U.S. Marine and Iraq War veteran—was killed during the incident.
This horrific crime is yet another painful reminder of the persistent threat of violence in our society. Tragically, it is not the first such attack, and without meaningful action, it may not be the last. Regardless of motive, such acts demand a unified response from all sectors of society—local, state, and federal governments, civil society, and everyday citizens—to foster collaboration and sustain active engagement in the pursuit of public safety.
Crimes of this nature are crimes against all of us. They defy justification and must be met with unwavering condemnation. Our collective safety depends on our shared commitment to stand united against hate, extremism, and violence in all its forms—political or otherwise.
This tragedy also underscores the urgent need to confront the reality of violence as a deep and ongoing challenge facing our nation. No one should ever experience such terror, especially in places of worship—spaces meant for peace, reflection, and community.
AHRC urges all houses of worship to take the threat of violence seriously. While the risk is small, the threat is real. We recommend that houses of worship reach out to law enforcement if they need basic training on dealing with threats.
The American Human Rights Council extends its heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims of this brutal attack. We also wish a full and speedy recovery to all those injured.
AHRC remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting peace, justice, and the protection of human rights for all regardless of race, faith, and origin.
