Members of the Latter-day Saint Church of Jesus Christ have raised over $140,000 for the family of Thomas Jacob Sanford, the individual responsible for a recent shooting that claimed four lives at a church in Michigan. A GoFundMe campaign had nearly reached $150,000 by Wednesday morning. On Sunday, Sanford attacked The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc before setting it on fire.
In a statement, fundraiser David Butler expressed empathy for Sanford’s family, noting their significant loss. Sanford leaves behind a wife and child, and Butler emphasized that the family is facing considerable hardship. Describing himself as just an “ordinary member” of the church, Butler mentioned that he has no ties to either Sanford or Grand Blanc. Donations have come in from individuals identifying themselves as church members from states like Missouri, Hawaii, and Utah.
Butler detailed the financial and emotional realities the Sanford family is grappling with, including ongoing medical needs for one of Sanford’s children, all of which demand consistent care and support. He suggested that every contribution helps stabilize the family during this incredibly tumultuous time.
This wave of support appears to contrast sharply with testimonies from two friends of Sanford, who told the Associated Press about his longstanding disdain for the Church of Jesus Christ. They described how this sentiment began after he returned from Utah, where he had an unsuccessful relationship with a woman of the faith. After leaving the Marines, Sanford had moved to Utah and reportedly struggled with substance abuse issues.
It seems Sanford’s frustrations with the church were evident even years ago. One friend recalled a wedding event 13 years prior where Sanford vented about his grievances. Another remarked on how Sanford’s attitudes had become markedly altered after his time in Utah, saying, “When he came back, he was a completely different person.” Discussions among friends had sometimes veered into uncomfortable territory regarding his criticisms of Mormons, leaving them feeling confused and initially dismissive of his comments.
As the investigation continues, it’s clear the implications of Sanford’s actions ripple through various communities, raising questions about his motives and the broader context of his life that led to this tragic event. Even as support pours in for the family he leaves behind, the chilling aftermath of his actions looms large.
