GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WXYZ) - One year after a devastating attack destroyed a Grand Blanc Township church and claimed four lives, community members are looking ahead with a renewed sense of hope.

Leaders, church members, mental health advocates and residents gathered Monday to break ground on a new Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stake center, marking a significant step in the community's recovery from the September 2025 tragedy.

The ceremony comes exactly one year after authorities say 40-year-old Burton resident Thomas Sanford drove his pickup truck through the church's front entrance during Sunday services, opened fire with an assault rifle and then set the building on fire.

Watch Ryan Marshall's video report below:

Grand Blanc ARCC helps residents after last year's tragic church shooting

Four church members were killed and eight others were injured in the attack. The church, which served as a regional headquarters for several surrounding Latter-day Saints congregations, was destroyed. Federal investigators later classified the shooting as a targeted hate crime, citing Sanford's anti-Mormon beliefs.

As the community reflects on the painful anniversary, local leaders say healing remains an ongoing process.

 This is something that has never happened on this level for this community,  said Gwendolyn Smith-Richardson, director of the Grand Blanc Advocacy, Recovery and Connection Center.

Previous coverage: Bodycam video shows heroic actions of first responders during Grand Blanc Twp. attack

Bodycam shows heroic actions of first responders during Grand Blanc Twp. attack

The center was established to provide long-term support for those affected by the attack, offering mental health services, trauma counseling and recovery resources for survivors, families and the broader community.

Smith-Richardson said the need for those services has not diminished with time.

 As life goes on, we have to consider that people will continue to need services. They will continue to need support. They will continue to need help,  she said.

Previous coverage: Vigil and community ref

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