GRAND BLANC TWP, MI — New fundraisers have started for additional victims of the shooting and fire at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township.
Four people died as a result of the fire and shooting which police have said 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford is responsible for on Sunday, Sept. 28, at the church on McCandlish Road.
Several others were injured during the incident.
A GoFundMe campaign started by Allison Ensign says her brother Greg Mikat Mikat suffered gunshot wounds and is in the hospital.
“Greg was attempting to stop the horrific attack at his church when the assailant shot him three times,” reads the campaign. “This has been a devastating and unexpected tragedy for his family.”
Police have not named any of the victims, but several have been identified on GoFundMe pages created in the aftermath of the tragedy, including Pat Howard, John Bond of Linden and Benjamin Phelps of Linden and his young son.
“Greg is fighting hard, but the road to recovery will be long, with surgeries, hospital stays, and months of healing ahead,” the campaign by Ensign reads. “While Greg focuses on recovery, the family is also facing enormous challenges—medical bills, time away from work, and the daily expenses of keeping life moving during this crisis.”
The funds raised from the campaign will be used for medical bills and treatment costs, lost wages, as well travel, food, and living expenses during recovery.
The campaign has raised nearly $90,000 of its $120,000 goal by late afternoon Wednesday, Oct. 1.
“We know not everyone can give financially, but prayers, shares, and kind words are also deeply appreciated,” the campaign reads. “Thank you for standing with Greg and family in this heartbreaking time.”
Kathleen Payton has also started a campaign for her parents, Jeff and Marei Kubiak.
“While attending church that day, my dad heard a loud crash and immediately rushed to help—because that’s who he is In the chaos that followed, he was shot,” reads the campaign.
Jeff sustained a gunshot wound to the ankle, which has required two surgeries and Marei was also injured by glass shards in her hands and feet.
The campaign states Jeff is self-employed, running a carpet cleaning and restoration business which requires him to be on his feet every day, “something he won’t be able to do for the foreseeable future.”
The campaign has a goal of $60,000 to help with medical expenses, lost income, therapy, and other costs. It has raised nearly $58,000 as of Wednesday afternoon.
“If you know Jeff and Marei, you know that they are always the first to lend a hand. They’ve raised five amazing kids, are grandparents to 11 beautiful grandchildren, and pour their hearts into their small family farm. Their home is one filled with love, animals, and unwavering faith,” reads the campaign, which ends with, “Thank you for your love, support, and prayers. It means more than you know.”