Florida Republicans released multiple statements condemning an attack on a Latter-Day Saints Church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan.
At 10:30 am on Sunday, 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford was accused of ramming his truck into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Police claim Sanford then exited his vehicle and began shooting at churchgoers, and then after setting fire to the church using gasoline.
Law enforcement arrived at the scene, where they shot and subsequently killed Sanford.
Police confirmed that four people have died. Seven others are in stable condition, and one remains in critical condition. Two victims were killed by gunfire, while the other two were found after the fire. Roughly 150 people were attending services at the time.
Florida Republicans were quick to release statements scathing the attacks and calling for peace.
Rep. Byron Donalds (R) called for an end to religious attacks and said that all Americans must be able to worship without any fear.
“Erika and I stand with our LDS neighbors in the wake of this horrific attack. We pray for the victims, their families, & thank law enforcement for their continued response. All Americans must be able to worship freely, safely, & without fear. This epidemic of violence must end.” Donalds expressed.
Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R) expressed her gratitude for law enforcement intervention while exclaiming that “Religious and political violence have no place in America.”
“Heartbroken by the horrific targeted attack on a Michigan church today. A place of worship should never be a place of fear. My prayers are with the victims, families, and community. Grateful for the bravery of law enforcement & first responders. We must protect our houses of worship and stand united against evil,” Cammack said.
Rep. María Elvira-Salzar (R) also released a statement where she stands in solidarity with the victims and their families, relaying “heartfelt prayers” and calling for the elimination of “this epidemic of senseless violence.”
As of the time of this writing, no Florida Democratic Representatives have released any statements on the matter.
