Deadly Encounter: City Council Candidate Details Interaction with Michigan Church Shooter

A city council candidate has come forward with a disturbing account of his interaction with the alleged shooter who killed four people at a Michigan church. Kris Johns, a candidate for the Burton City Council, met Thomas Sanford while canvassing door-to-door about a week before the attack. During their conversation, Sanford expressed anti-Mormon views, asking Johns about his thoughts on guns and what he knew about Mormons. Johns described Sanford’s rant as “extremely anti-Mormon” and recalled him saying, “Mormons are the anti-Christ”.

“Investigation Uncovers Troubling Details”The FBI is investigating the shooting as an act of targeted violence, with over 100 interviews conducted so far. Authorities have found four improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Sanford’s pickup truck, made from consumer-grade fireworks and smoke canisters. The ATF is working to determine the significance of these devices in the investigation. Reuben Coleman, acting special agent in charge of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office, emphasized that investigators are working tirelessly to uncover the facts and circumstances surrounding this tragedy.

“Community Mourns and Seeks Answers”The attack has left the community reeling, with residents expressing shock and grief. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has received support from neighboring congregations, and local mental health professionals have volunteered to help community members process the trauma. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the motive behind Sanford’s alleged actions. The community is coming together to support the victims’ families and seek healing in the aftermath of this tragic event.