Start Here Church Shooting in Michigan
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Sep 29, 2025 Josh Margolin, ABC News chief investigative reporter, shares gripping details about a church shooting in Michigan, discussing the suspect's violent history and potential motivations. He highlights the unfortunate reality of increased attacks on places of worship, linking them to societal trauma and gun violence. Also featured, James Sample, a Hofstra law professor, explores the contentious debate surrounding President Trump's latest Supreme Court challenge on birthright citizenship, unpacking its implications for the 14th Amendment.
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Dramatic Attack On Michigan Church
- Worshipers were inside when a suspect drove through the church doors, fired shots, and set a fire.
- The shooter was neutralized in the parking lot minutes after the attack, leaving the building a total loss.
Motive Not Yet Confirmed
- Officials said the attack was treated as targeted violence but did not confirm a religious or hate motive.
- Law enforcement would label it a hate crime only after confirming motive pointing to targeting Christians.
Suspect's Background And Struggles
- The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, is a 40-year-old Iraq veteran living nearby with mechanical skills.
- Social media showed recent family and financial strains, but investigators said a full picture of motive is not yet clear.