MONDAY [Part ONE]
- donbrooks777
- Sep 29
- 26 min read
New BLOG – Great ARTICLES
MONDAY 9-[29]-25
[PART ONE]
SPIRITUAL:
In God We Trust
Monday, September 29, 2025
Ancient Egypt once overflowed with wealth and prosperity until natural disasters and famine brought it to its knees, bankrupt. The hot, dry north African winds began blowing and didn’t stop. Temperatures inched upward, and no rain fell. With ruined crops came livestock deaths, and Egypt’s currency failed.
The history of that nation and others that rejected God should prove a powerful lesson to the land once free. Look at their diminished power, sad standard of living, and devaluation of human life. Look at the fate of their paper gods. Is it possible that America could share Egypt’s tragic fate?
When America was burgeoning as an economic power and prosperity seemed inevitable to those willing to work, our nation’s leaders became concerned—too much riches, too soon, could spell disaster for a young nation. And so, it was agreed upon that In God We Trust would be embossed on our currency
Previously, no nation had the desire, humility, or boldness to keep God ever before its citizens' eyes. Yet, in our wealth and fatness, we have forgotten the Provider of our blessings. We have forgotten that He hears the perverseness of our judges and lawmakers. Forgotten that God sees the complacency of His church, her refusal to be salt and light in the world. America, America, why should God shed His grace on thee?Let us return to the Lord in heartfelt brokenness and true repentance. And may we trust in God alone, who is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy” (Psalm 103:8).
Awaiting His Return,
Pastor – Jack HIBBS
CANADIAN:
The Western Standard's Daily Newsletter:
TODAY'S HEADLINES
With half a year having passed under Carney’s leadership, the Liberal government appears as directionless and inept as it ever was under Trudeau’s guidance.
Liberal strategists successfully convinced Canadians that the trade war with the United States was such an urgent issue, it could only be managed under the brilliant guidance of the economic wizard, Mark Carney. Voters in Eastern Canada forgot about the decade of ineptitude under the Trudeau regime and kept the Liberals in power.
Since the outset of his second presidency, Donald Trump has imposed severe tariffs on various nations throughout the international political system.
The announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney to fast-track five "nation-building" projects under the new Major Projects Office (MPO) was met with considerable public and media fanfare. It was framed as a strategic and decisive step to revitalize the national economy and respond to global trade threats.
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s unveiling of the first five “national interest” major projects is drawing mixed reactions from Canadians, with many expressing concern that oil and gas development is being overlooked.
A $2.2 billion solar power plant facility has shut down in California which — as reported by Association of Avian Veterinarians — is responsible for killing over 6,000 birds each year.
Taxpayers were billed nearly $329,000 for a two-day green technology conference later linked to a federal agency that was shut down for rampant conflicts of interest
Sen. Paula Simons admitted she took concerns about WestJet’s use of Swoop aircraft directly to Canada’s top air passenger regulator but insisted it was about systemic issues and not her own travel experience.
The Supreme Court of Canada (SCC) is celebrating its 150th anniversary by throwing away one of its ceremonial symbols.
The Commons finance committee has voted to launch a probe into corporate tax avoidance through offshore accounts, with Conservatives singling out Prime Minister Mark Carney as the most prominent example of what they call a two-tier tax system.
Western Standard
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TRUMP:
Trump MOVES IN - Liberals Scrambling:
· Trump fortifies the city. With radical violence on the rise, the president is taking action to protect government property and employees. Read more...
· James Comey left exposed. Declassified FBI documents prove the Deep Stater's guilt beyond a shadow of a doubt. Read more...
· Gavin Newsom caught in the act. A despicable law signed by the California governor provides cover for killers. Read more...
Comments:
Greg Price
DA Larry Krasner: "Donald Trump is a fascist."
Reporter: "How is Trump a fascist?"
DA Larry Krasner: "You are un-American."
This guy is in charge of enforcing the law in Philadelphia.
Have you seen this?
· Law and order restored. Trump authorized the ultimate punishment for the worst criminals. Read more...
· Dangerous Indonesian imports flagged. This is the second time FDA found radioactive contamination in a common food. Read more...
· Cancelled comedian makes return. The 'Seinfeld' star is back on stage 20 years after a viral outburst. Read more...
· Time to relocate? Trump suggests moving the World Cup if conditions fail to improve. Read more...
· Serena Williams exposed. After stoking a viral racial controversy, the tennis star is facing questions over a discovery inside her home. Read more...
Real Talk Digest
At least 2 dead and 8 others Wounded after Shooting and Fire at Michigan Church:
What we know
• At least two people were killed and eight others were wounded today in a shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, police said.
• Authorities say a gunman rammed a vehicle through the front of the church during a large service, began shooting and then intentionally set a fire that grew into a large blaze. Police believe they may still find victims in the burned-out building.
• Officers exchanged fire with the gunman and killed him, according to police. Investigators have identified the man as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old from the nearby city of Burton.
• Grand Blanc is a suburb of Flint, Michigan, and is about an hour’s drive north of Detroit.
What we know about Michigan church attack suspect Thomas Sanford
Thomas Jacob Sanford, the suspect in Sunday morning’s mass shooting at a Michigan church, was an Iraq War veteran and outdoorsman, according to military records and social media posts.
Police say Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan, killed two and injured at least eight others while opening fire on congregants of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township. Sanford, who also allegedly set fire to the church, was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police, authorities said.
A Marine Corps spokesperson told CNN that Sanford served as a sergeant and received several medals for his service, which lasted from 2004 to 2008. He was deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom for several months starting in the summer of 2007.
Sanford graduated from Goodrich High School in 2004 and was recognized among other veteran alumni, according to an archived page from the school’s website. A local news profile of Sanford from 2007 said he was deployed with the US Marine Corps to Japan before preparing to head for service in Iraq.
Social media accounts linked to Sanford’s family show he was married with at least one child, a young son. According to a GoFundMe page from 2015, the family was in need of donations to help pay for the medical care of Sanford’s son, who was born with a rare genetic disorder.
The newborn was diagnosed with a condition called congenital hyperinsulinism, which required a lengthy hospital stay and several surgeries to remove portions of the pancreas, according to a family Facebook page documenting the difficult journey.
The child’s medical condition took a financial toll on the family, with one local news article reporting Sanford took leave from his work as a truck driver for Coca-Cola to be with his son.
“Don’t ever take having healthy kids for granted,” Sanford is quoted as saying in another article. “We are proud of our child. I spent four years in the Marine Corps and was in Iraq and this is still the most unique thing to deal with.”
Other posts on Sanford’s mother’s Facebook page show that Sanford was a hunter, posing with deer and other game.
"Exhaustive" investigation underway to identify a motive, source says
Authorities investigating 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford — the man who police say carried out today’s deadly attack — are still working to identify a possible motive, a law enforcement source familiar with the investigation tells CNN.
Investigators are conducting a physical search of his suspected residence, and authorities are also working to obtain search warrants for digital media that may help shed light on his motive, the source said.
The “exhaustive” investigation now involves dozens of law enforcement personnel across the state of Michigan, according to the source.
Although authorities say Sanford was killed in a shootout with police and there will be no prosecution, identifying a possible motive remains a central focus, the source said. Investigators will be working through the night.
In photos: Today's attack on an LDS church in Michigan
The chaos that began today with a gunman ramming his car into a place of worship in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, ended with a huge blaze at the church and embraces between shocked and grieving community members.
These are some of the images that have emerged since the attack on congregants at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
In this image taken from video released by Julie J, @Malkowski6April, Massive flames and smoke rise from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc today.
People gather at a reunification area at the Trillium Theater near The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Emergency responders work the scene outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Church members and residents are overcome with emotion as they reunite at the Trillium Theater near the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Emergency responders work the scene outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Emergency responders work the scene outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
People gather near the scene of a shooting at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Fire and law enforcement officers stand outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after the fire was extinguished.
Evidence technicians are now inside the church, law enforcement source says
Evidence technicians are inside the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, and are processing the scene after the large fire following today’s shooting was extinguished, a law enforcement source told CNN.
Authorities are currently working to determine whether additional victims may be inside after this morning’s deadly attack.
Earlier, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said they believe the suspect “deliberately” set fire to the church. The police chief said investigators are “still trying to determine exactly when and where that fire ended up coming from and how it got started.”
He added that police believe more people were “near the fire and they were unable to get out of the church.”
Officers "neutralized" suspect within 10 minutes of initial shooting call, police chief says
It took police less than a minute to respond to this morning’s shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, according to police. Within 10 minutes, the suspected shooter was dead.
“That call came out at 10:25 a.m. and 32 seconds,” Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said in a news conference. “We had officers on scene at 10:25 and 57 seconds.”
The suspect “was neutralized at 10:33,” in the church parking lot, Renye added.
Authorities plan to hold next news conference at 8 p.m. ET
Authorities said they will hold their next news conference at 8 p.m. ET to provide updates on the investigation into the fatal attack at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
Two people were killed and multiple were wounded after 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford opened fire on congregants at the church, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye confirmed. Authorities believe Sanford intentionally started a fire at the church as well, he said.
1 victim is in critical condition and 7 are stable, police say
Emergency responders work the scene outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following the shooting and fire today.
One of the 8 victims injured in Sunday’s attack is in critical condition, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said at a Sunday afternoon news conference.
Seven other victims shot in the attack are in stable condition, he said.
Police had previously said a total of 8 people were shot and injured and two were killed. The shooter is also dead.
Police identify suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye identified the suspect in today’s fatal attack at The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford.
NOW: Authorities provide updates on LDS church shooting in Michigan
Authorities hold a press conference in Grand Blanc, MIchigan.
Authorities are holding a news conference about the deadly shooting and fire that occurred at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
We’ll have more posts with the latest information soon.
What is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
The Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is seen in Salt Lake City in 2019.
Sunday’s attack occurred at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a religious faith with millions of followers that was founded in New York in the 19th century.
The church was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 1800s. Church members revere Smith as a prophet. The church says he received “an ancient record from an angel known as Moroni,” which he transcribed to produce the “Book of Mormon,” a key holy text for the faith.
The church defines itself as a type of Christianity that centers on God and Jesus. But it differs from other Christian doctrines in crucial ways – such as the inclusion of the “Book of Mormon” as a holy text and the veneration of Smith as a prophet.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sometimes abbreviated to LDS, is widely known as “the Mormon church” and the faith is frequently called “Mormonism.” But church leaders reject those names and have made several concerted efforts to rebrand.
Although Smith founded the church in New York, today its headquarters are in Salt Lake City. A 2023 study found around 42% of Utah’s population identify as members of the church.
The faith is sometimes associated with polygamy – founder Smith had between 30 and 40 wives. But the church disavowed the practice in 1890, resulting in a schism. The Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a highly controversial group not associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, continued to practice polygamy; several of its leaders today have been convicted of serious crimes.
In 2024, there were more than 17 million members of the church’s largest denomination, according to their 2024 statistical report.
Missionaries are a core part of the church’s work, traveling around the world to proselytize. In 2024, more than 300,000 new converts were baptized, according to the statistical report.
Map: This is where the attack took place
Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, where a gunman attacked congregants at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is located outside Flint and is about an hour from Detroit by car.
What we know so far about today’s LDS church shooting in Michigan
Emergency responders work the scene outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday.
At least two people have died and multiple people are wounded after a 40-year-old man rammed his car into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, this morning before opening fire on worshippers and setting the building ablaze, authorities said.
The gunman is dead and the motive remains unknown as authorities investigate the incident.
The gunman: Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye identified the suspect as a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan. Renye said the suspect used an assault rifle during the attack. Two officers were involved in a shootout and killed the suspect, he said, and police believe there is only one person involved. “We believe we have the guy who did this,” Renye said.
The victims: At least two people are confirmed dead and there are eight gunshot victims, including some who are in critical condition. The wounded have been transported to local hospitals, the police chief said. Children are among those hurt, a source familiar with the incident told CNN. Authorities said they believe they will find more victims after they secure the scene of the fire.
The shooting: The gunman drove his car into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and opened fire on congregants during a large service. “He then exited his vehicle firing several rounds at individuals within the church,” Renye said.
The fire: Authorities believe the suspect “deliberately” set fire to the church. The police chief said investigators are “still trying to determine exactly when and where that fire ended up coming from and how it got started.” He added they believe more people were “near the fire and they were unable to get out of the church.” The fire has since been extinguished.
The investigation: Authorities will execute a search warrant at the suspect’s residence and go through cell phone records to “find out if there was a motive,” Renye said. He said the FBI has allocated “100 agents to the area” to help get statements from witnesses. Separately, a source told CNN a bomb squad was assessing a suspicious item found on church property.
The police chief said he will provide another update at 5 p.m. ET.
Police chief provides number for family reunification efforts
Grand Blanc Police Chief William Renye provided a phone number and location for those looking to reunify with family members following this morning’s deadly shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
In a video posted to Facebook, Renye said those looking to reunify with family members can call this number: 248-705-7352.
“That number will lead to you the Red Cross who is on scene over there at Trillium” where there are several people who were at the church when the incident took place and “they will be able to tell you where your family member is at,” the police chief said.
Resources will also be available to the wider Grand Blanc community at the township’s police department, he said. Starting tomorrow and throughout the week, from 8 a.m. ET to 8 p.m. ET, counselors at the department will be on staff and available to talk to the community, Renye said.
At least 2 people killed and 8 shot in Michigan church attack, police say
People meet at a reunification area after the shooting at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday.
Lukas Katilius/The Flint Journal via AP
Another victim has died from a gunshot wound sustained during the Sunday shooting, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said in a video posted on Facebook.
That brings the total death toll to at least two, after police previously said at least one person was killed. At least 8 other people were injured. The shooter is also dead.
Some cities have ramped up police presence at places of worship after the Michigan shooting
Extra law enforcement officers are being deployed to places of worship across Los Angeles and New York City following a deadly shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, according to officials.
Increasing police patrols at religious locations is a common practice in major cities after a significant attack on a place of worship occurs.
Both the Los Angeles Police Department and the New York City Police Department are increasing patrols out of an abundance of caution, officials say.
Today’s shooting is the latest attack on a house of worship in the United States. Just over a month ago, on August 27, a shooter fired through the windows of a church in Minneapolis, killing two children and wounding 14 others, as well as three elderly parishioners, as they prayed.
Authorities expected to hold a news conference at 5 p.m. ET
As we continue to gather more reporting on the attack on a church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, we are also awaiting an update from officials.
Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said another media briefing would be held at 5 p.m. ET.
We’ll bring you live updates on that news conference when it takes place.
Today's shooting comes a day after the death of LDS president
Church President Russell M. Nelson attends the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints conference in Salt Lake City in 2019.
Today’s shooting and fire came as members mourned the death of Russell M. Nelson, the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Nelson, who was 101 when he died last night, was the oldest-ever president of the church. He became the leader of the LDS Church in 2018.
Authorities will execute search warrant at suspect's home as motive remains unknown
Police and emergency vehicles respond near the scene of a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday.
Authorities will execute a search warrant at the suspect’s residence and go through cell phone records to “find out if there was a motive,” Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said.
The suspect, who Renye said was killed by police in a shootout at the church, has been identified as a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan.
Renye said the FBI has allocated “100 agents to the area” to help get statements from witnesses.
“As you can imagine, there’s a lot of witnesses that were within the church and that is a lot of witness information statements that we have to obtain,” he said.
The chief said hundreds of people were attending the service at the time of the attack.
There have been at least 324 mass shootings this year
As of Sunday afternoon, there have been at least 324 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which like CNN defines a mass shooting as one in which four or more people – not counting the shooter – are shot.
Sunday’s attack at the church in Michigan followed another mass shooting less than 24 hours earlier: Overnight, a gunman opened fire on a waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, killing three people and injuring at least eight others.
Shooting follows other attacks on houses of worship
People light candles at a memorial for victims of the shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on August 28.
Sunday’s deadly shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, is the latest attack on a house of worship in the United States.
Minneapolis shooting: Just over a month ago, on August 27, a shooter fired through the windows of a church in Minneapolis, killing two children and wounding 14 others, as well as three elderly parishioners, as they prayed. The shooter, 23-year-old Robin Westman, graduated from the school in 2017 and died of a self-inflicted wound at the scene.
Arson at Florida synagogue: On September 19, days before Rosh Hashanah, a 31-year-old man allegedly set fire to a synagogue in southwest Florida. The suspect was charged with arson and criminal mischief to a church, synagogue, mosque or religious article – both felonies.
LDS church calls for "peace and healing" after "tragic act of violence"
Emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints confirmed Sunday’s shooting in a news release, saying “multiple individuals were injured” in a “tragic act of violence.”
“The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected,” the statement from church spokesperson Doug Andersen reads. “We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families.”
The statement adds, “Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection.”
“We pray for peace and healing for all involved.”
Hundreds of people were attending Sunday service when shooting occurred
Smoke surrounds the building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday, after an active shooter and fire was reported at the church.
Hundreds of worshippers were attending Sunday service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, at the time of the attack, according to police Chief William Renye.
Sunday service lasts for two hours as worshippers sing songs, pray and listen to sermons, according to the church’s website, which says they are attended by adults and children from 18 months old and up.
Suspect used an assault rifle, police say
The suspect used an assault rifle during the shooting, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said.
Trump briefed on LDS church shooting
President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that he has been briefed on the “horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan.”
“The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn,” the president wrote.
“This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!” Trump added.
Vice President JD Vance also posted a message on X, writing, “Just an awful situation in Michigan. FBI is on the scene and the entire administration is monitoring things. Say a prayer for the victims and first responders.”
Bomb squad assessing suspicious item found on church property, source says
A State Police Bomb Squad vehicle arrives to the scene with emergency services responding to a shooting and fire in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday.
Authorities have found a suspicious item on the church property that they believe could be an improvised device, a source familiar with the incident told CNN.
The source added that the bomb squad was assessing the item.
Officers exchanged fire with the suspect and killed him, police chief says
Grand Blanc Chief of Police William Renye speaks during a news conference on Sunday.
Officers killed the suspect after exchanging gunfire with him at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, according to police Chief William Renye.
Two officers were involved in the shootout, according to the chief: one from the Department of Natural Resources and another from Grand Blanc Township.
Police believe more victims will be found on scene
Emergency personnel work at the scene of a shooting in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday.
Rebecca Cook/Reuters
More victims are expected to be found at the church where today’s shooting and fire occurred, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said.
Renye said the fire has been extinguished and added, “We do believe that we will find additional victims once we have that scene secure.”
The police chief said investigators are “still trying to determine exactly when and where that fire ended up coming from and how it got started,” but that officers believe the suspect set the blaze intentionally.
“We do believe that there were people up there that were near that fire and they were unable to get out of the church. So, we do believe we will find additional victims once we’re able to search that, once there’s no signs of a fire reigniting,” he added.
Police believe fire at LDS church was "deliberately" set by suspect
Emergency responders work to extinguish the fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday.
Authorities believe the suspect “deliberately” set fire to the church.
“There was a fire that occurred and we believe that was deliberately set by the suspect,” Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said.
“That fire was just extinguished by the Grand Blanc Township Fire Department within the past hour,” he added.
Gunman drove vehicle into Grand Blanc church and opened fire, police chief says:
A gunman drove his car into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and opened fire on congregants during a large service, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye says.
Renye said police have identified the suspect as a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan.
“A 40-year-old suspect from Burton, he’s a male, he drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church,” Renye said during a news briefing.
“He then exited his vehicle firing several rounds at individuals within the church,” Renye said.
At least one person has died and nine have been injured, police chief says
Grand Blanc Chief of Police William Renye speaks during a news conference on Sunday.
At least one person is confirmed dead following a shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, Chief of Police William Renye said at a news conference Sunday.
A total of ten gunshot victims, including some who are in critical condition, have been transported to local hospitals, he added.
Authorities believe additional victims will be found once the scene has been secured.
Watch: Heavy police presence and smoke billow near Michigan LDS church
As the incident unfolded Sunday morning, a heavy police and EMS presence was seen near the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
As authorities responded to the scene, a nearby resident captured video of streets lined with emergency vehicles as smoke billowed in the background.
Watch the scene here: https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/church-shooting-fire-michigan-09-28-25
Aerial view shows how large the Michigan church fire has grown
Drone video shows thick clouds of smoke pouring out of the actively burning church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, following today’s shooting.
First responders can be seen in the parking lot of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc as they battle the fire.
"My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community," Michigan governor says
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says she is receiving updates on the shooting and fire at a church in Grand Blanc.
“My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community,” Whitmer wrote in a post on X. “Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable. I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. We will continue to monitor this situation and hold the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc close.”
Attorney general and FBI director react to shooting
Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel attend a press conference in Washington, DC, on May 7.
Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X that she is receiving briefings on today’s shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
“I am receiving briefings about what appears to be a horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan,” Bondi wrote, adding the FBI and ATF will be assisting local authorities.
“Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy,” Bondi added.
FBI Director Kash Patel also posted on X that the agency is “tracking reports of the horrific shooting and fire at an LDS church in Grand Blanc, Michigan.”
Patel confirmed the FBI will be assisting local authorities.
“Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act. Our prayers are with the victims and their families during this terrible tragedy,” Patel wrote.
Children among those wounded in LDS church shooting, source says
Children are among the wounded from today’s shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, a source familiar with the situation told CNN.
At least some of the injuries are very serious, according to the source.
Patients were still being taken from the church to a hospital as of a short time ago, the source said.
Videos show large plumes of smoke from fire at church in Grand Blanc
Videos captured by a resident, Leah Graham, show heavy plumes of smoke coming from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
The videos were taken from a nearby road this morning.
Graham told CNN she didn’t witness the attack at the church but noticed that surrounding roads were closed as she drove by.
incident
Multiple people hurt in Michigan church shooting
Multiple people have been injured in a shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, according to police.
The shooter is down and the church is currently on fire, according to local authorities.
Police are urging the public to avoid the area as emergency response efforts continue.
Grand Blanc is a suburb of Flint, Michigan.
Thank you, Donna Warren
CNN USA
By Alaa Elassar,
Zoe Sottile and
Amanda Musa,
CNN
GLOBAL:
Health Officials Warn of Link Between Tylenol and Autism–What to Know:
President Donald Trump speaks during an announcement about autism, at the White House on Sept. 22, 2025. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
By Zachary Stieber | September 22, 2025
Updated: September 26, 2025
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and other officials announced on Sept. 22 that acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, may be associated with autism, a disorder with a wide range of symptoms. They also said that leucovorin, or prescription folinic acid, looks like a promising therapy for autism.
Here’s what to know about the new announcement, autism, and folinic acid.
Tylenol Link
Officials said the available evidence regarding a link between acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, and neurodevelopmental disorders is sufficient to issue a new warning against using acetaminophen during pregnancy.
“We now have data we cannot ignore,” Dr. Marty Makary, the Food and Drug Administration’s commissioner, told a briefing in Washington.
That includes a 2019 study from Boston University and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine that analyzed umbilical cord plasma and determined that in-utero exposure to acetaminophen heightened the risk of developing autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), two neurodevelopmental disorders.
A 2025 review also found “evidence consistent with an association between acetaminophen exposure during pregnancy and increased incidence” of neurodevelopmental disorders, according to Dr. Andrea Baccarelli, dean of the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, and his coauthors.
In a notice to physicians dated Sept. 22, Makary said that “evidence has accumulated suggesting that the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women may be associated with an increased risk of neurological conditions such as autism and ADHD in children.”
He said that doctors should consider minimizing the use of acetaminophen during pregnancy, while being aware that it’s the safest over-the-counter medicine for fever and pain.
Other experts dispute that the evidence supports a link, pointing in part to a 2024 Swedish study that analyzed the records of nearly 2.5 million children and concluded there was no link between fetal acetaminophen exposure and the development of autism or ADHD.
“At this time, the weight of scientific evidence that acetaminophen use during pregnancy causes an increased risk for autism or ADHD is simply inconclusive,” Dr. Sindhu Srinivas, president of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, said in a recent statement. The organization stated on Sept. 22 that it is standing behind its recommendation that acetaminophen is safe to treat pain and fever in pregnant women.
A spokesperson for Kenvue, the parent company of Tylenol’s manufacturer, told The Epoch Times in an email on Sept. 22 that “over a decade of rigorous research, endorsed by leading medical professionals and global health regulators, confirms there is no credible evidence linking acetaminophen to autism.”
Tylenol caplets are displayed in San Anselmo, Calif., on Sept. 22, 2025. U.S. health officials issued a new warning Sept. 22, 2025, about taking acetaminophen during pregnancy. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Autism Rates Rise
Autism is a disorder with symptoms such as difficulty communicating and maintaining eye contact. About a quarter of autistic people cannot speak or are “minimally verbal,” according to a 2018 review of autism data.
Autism rates have spiked in the United States in recent decades.
The prevalence was one in 31 children in 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in the spring. That was up from one in 150 children in 2002.
President Donald Trump on Sept. 22 referenced older numbers indicating the rate was once much lower. With such a large increase, “you know there’s something artificial,” he said.
Kennedy said in April that genetics may be behind some cases, but with such a jump, “you need an environmental toxin.”
The CDC said previously on its website that a number of factors may make a child more likely to have autism, including being born to older parents and having certain genetic conditions.
Some groups, such as the Autism Society of America, say the increase may stem from updated diagnostic criteria and more recognition of the disorder.
“Increased awareness of Autism plays a pivotal role in educating individuals, parents, educators and healthcare providers to better identify Autistic traits and characteristics,” the group said in April. “This fact coupled with expanded diagnostic criteria over the past decade, leads to fewer misdiagnoses, and a broader interpretation of what falls within the spectrum.”
Vaccines a Cause?
Kennedy has in the past said vaccines can cause autism.
“Many of the parents have reported that their kid, that their child developed autism immediately after the vaccine—so that’s something that we’re looking at right now,” he said earlier this year.
On Sept. 22, officials did not say that vaccines are a cause. But they did not rule out making such an announcement in the future.
A man holds his 14-month-old son while he gets the MMR vaccine at a clinic in Lubbock, Texas, on March 1, 2025. Some parents have reported that they believe vaccines can cause autism. (Jan Sonnenmair/Getty Images)
“Autism is a complex disorder with multifactorial etiology,” Kennedy said. “We are continuing to investigate a multiplicity of potential causes, with no areas ... taboo. One area that we are closely examining, as the president mentioned, is vaccines. Some 40 to 70 percent of mothers who have children with autism believe that their child was injured by a vaccine. President Trump believes that we should be listening to these mothers instead of gaslighting and marginalizing them.”
Some parents have reported that they believe autism can be caused by vaccines, including measles-mumps-rubella vaccination. Research into a possible link between that shot and autism has not found an association. However, under a government program, some people have been compensated for claims of injuries from vaccines, including autism.
Trump has voiced support for spacing out the administration of vaccines beyond what the current government schedule recommends.
“They pump so much stuff into those beautiful little babies,” he said on Sept. 22, later criticizing the recommendation that babies receive a hepatitis B dose shortly after birth.
Advisers to the CDC were considering delaying the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, but decided on Sept. 19 to postpone the vote to gather more data. They did advise the CDC to update recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines to emphasize that people should consult with health care providers and consider various factors before receiving one of the shots.
The CDC also announced this month that it was planning to award money to an institute to investigate “the association between vaccinations and autism prevalence,” as part of its new mission.
The National Institutes of Health, meanwhile, is awarding $50 million to 13 projects that will focus on the root causes of autism as well as therapies for the disorder...
PRIMIER REPORTS... continued
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