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FBI Detroit: Grand Blanc church attack was targeted and motivated by anti‑religious beliefs; 5 dead, 9 injured
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Summary
Jennifer Runyon, special agent in charge of the FBI's Detroit field office, said the FBI has determined the Oct. 28 attack on a Grand Blanc congregation was motivated by the assailant's anti‑religious beliefs, confirmed five fatalities (including the assailant) and nine injured, and urged the public to use federal resources.
Jennifer Runyon, special agent in charge of the FBI's Detroit field office, updated the public on the investigation into the attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, saying the assault was a targeted act of violence believed to be motivated by the assailant's anti‑religious beliefs.
"Based upon the facts, circumstances, and information obtained in this case, I am confirming that this is a targeted act of violence believed to be motivated by the assailant's anti religious beliefs against the Mormon religious community," Runyon said. She did not provide investigative techniques or operational details, citing U.S. Department of Justice disclosure policies.
Runyon gave victim counts for the incident: five people are deceased, including the assailant, and nine others were injured, bringing the total number of deceased and injured victims to 14. She said the FBI has placed more than 100 personnel — special agents, intelligence analysts and professional staff — on the investigation across Michigan and within the bureau.
The special agent in charge listed the law enforcement partners assisting the inquiry: Grand Blanc Township Police Department, the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, the Michigan State Police, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources law enforcement division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.
Runyon urged those affected to use federal resources and directed people to the FBI webpage for this case, www.fbi.gov/grandblankchurchshooting, for information on victim assistance and updates. She thanked first responders, investigative teams and community members who aided on and after the scene and reiterated the bureau's commitment to supporting the investigation and protecting Michigan residents.
The FBI described the motive determination as the result of investigative work and cooperation with partner agencies and the U.S. Attorney's Office. Runyon did not announce any arrests or charges during the briefing. The statement closed with an expression of condolences and support for the Grand Blanc community.
