Churches in Grand Blanc Enhance Security Following Tragic Shooting

Grand Blanc, Michigan – In light of the recent deadly attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, local churches are ramping up their security measures. Thomas Jacob Sanford drove his pickup truck into the church, set it ablaze, and opened fire, resulting in four fatalities and eight injuries before the police intervened and shot him.

Rev. Jeffrey Heimssos of Faith Lutheran Church noted that his congregation can actually hear Siren Storm approaching the church, which is about a mile away. He mentioned that they were alerted via text by a church friend who was hiding in nearby woods during the incident.

In a precautionary move, Heimssus asked a veteran member of his congregation—someone who owns a gun—to get his firearm from his car, just in case. After the shooting, he reported that they continued with their service, but once they heard about the shooter being killed through social media, he reassured everyone that it was safe to step outside.

“We’ve implemented new security protocols,” Heimsus explained, noting that they now lock the doors after the attack, which can be somewhat inconvenient for visitors. He also added that two members would be stationed at the entrances during service hours, though a decision on hiring professional security hasn’t been made yet.

Reflecting on the matter, Heimsus said, “There’s a lot we can do. I mean, he drove the truck into the building.” Many in his congregation had previous interactions with Sanford. Interestingly, Heimsus mentioned that his grandson works with Sanford’s wife, who he described as “a wonderful person.”

Security Measures at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church

Rev. Jerry Lasley shared that at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, they keep the doors locked around the clock. He coordinates with trusted congregation members to maintain a watchful eye at the entrance during services. However, unlike at Faith Lutheran, Lasley is not considering hiring security. “I refuse to resort to armed security payments,” he stated, expressing a belief that while some congregants may have concealed carry licenses, he prefers not to be involved in that aspect.

“If you bring it, I hope you know exactly what you’re doing,” he remarked, emphasizing a cautious approach.

The two pastors have also reached out to provide support to the Church of Jesus Christ in the aftermath of this tragedy. Heimssus remarked, “Our community is just trying to do whatever we can to help.”

“We want to ensure these individuals don’t feel forgotten,” he added. “There will be another shooting next week, and everyone will move on. We can’t do that.”