Grand Blanc Church Attack; Southport Boat Shooting

A Sept. 28 attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, left multiple people dead and wounded after a 40-year-old suspect identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton rammed a pickup into the building, opened fire on worshippers, set the church ablaze, and was killed by police; authorities continued searching the burned, heavily damaged structure for additional victims. Officials reported at least four people killed and eight wounded, said ten people with gunshot wounds were taken to hospitals, and recovered two additional bodies inside the burned church that likely died in the fire; investigators said the gunman used gasoline to start the blaze and possessed suspected explosive devices. In Southport, North Carolina, a “highly premeditated” waterfront attack occurred when a man firing from a small boat opened fire on patrons at the American Fish Company, killing three people and injuring five. Authorities identified the Southport suspect as Nigel Edge of nearby Oak Island, who was detained after a U.S. Coast Guard crew located a person matching the description and has been charged with multiple counts including first-degree murder and attempted murder. Officials said investigators are probing motive and potential mental-health issues in North Carolina and examining the shooters’ backgrounds, while Grand Blanc and Southport communities continue recovery efforts as investigations proceed.