Latter-day Saints raise over $225,000 for shooter’s family after Michigan church tragedy

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have raised more than $225,000 for the family of Thomas Jacob Sanford, the man who killed four people during an attack at a stake center in Michigan.

Despite Sanford’s hostility toward the church — he reportedly referred to members as “the anti-Christ” and recently set fire to one of its chapels — Latter-day Saints worldwide contributed to a fundraiser benefiting his widow and son. The boy has a rare genetic disorder requiring expensive medical care.

The campaign was launched by author and church member David Butler, who said he noticed fundraising efforts for the other victims of the attack but not for Sanford’s family. The donations have ranged from small gifts to contributions of several thousand dollars.

Messages accompanying the donations described the effort as an act of forgiveness and compassion, emphasizing that the shooter’s family should not be blamed for his actions.

Sanford’s sister, Katie Hamilton, said her family was overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support.

While some criticism has emerged over raising funds for the shooter’s relatives, organizers said the effort was about ensuring his family is not left behind in the aftermath of the attack.