Multiple people were wounded after a unidentified gunman opened fire within a Michigan church. The incident took place in Grand Blanc close to Detroit — with officials later confirming that the shooter was “down”. The police also confirmed that the Mormon church was “actively on fire” but clarified that there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Authorities have not released details on the victims’ conditions. Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson said the area had been evacuated and local and federal authorities were there. The church, circled by a parking lot and a large lawn, is located near residential areas and a Jehovah’s Witness church in Grand Blanc. The shooting occurred the morning after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at 101. The next president of the faith is expected to be Dallin H Oaks as per church protocol.
“My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship is unacceptable….We will continue to monitor this situation,” said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement.
Three killed in North Carolina
The incident came mere hours after another shooting incident left three people dead and five others injured in a picturesque North Carolina town. Police said on Sunday that it had been a “highly premeditated” attack with a “targeted” location. The shooting took place late on Saturday along a popular stretch of bars and restaurants in Southport. The
Police Chief Todd Coring said at a press conference Sunday that Nigel Edge of Oak Island is accused of opening fire from a boat into a crowd gathered at American Fish Company in Southport. Investigators said he had piloted a small boat close to shore and stopped briefly to fire before speeding away.