Urgent Fundraiser Surges to Nearly $300K for Michigan Shooter’s Family
UPDATE: An urgent online campaign has rapidly raised nearly $300,000 for the family of the Michigan church shooter, Thomas Jacob Sanford, just 48 hours after the tragic incident that left four dead and eight injured. This unprecedented fundraiser has sparked significant controversy as it aims to support Sanford’s family, rather than the victims’ families, following a horrific shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan on Sunday.
Multiple fundraisers emerged in the wake of the shooting, but this particular campaign, initiated by author Dave Butler, has drawn significant attention for its focus on the shooter’s loved ones. As of now, over 7,000 donors have contributed, pushing the total to more than $295,000. Butler, a member of the same faith, stated he felt compelled to help the family, noting that they too are victims of this tragedy.
“I’m horrified by the attack, but I also recognize that the shooter’s family is suffering,” Butler said in a phone interview. “It’s a different kind of awful; it’s not worse, it’s not better either.”
The fundraising effort launched on GiveSendGo has garnered donations from various sources, including a family that contributed $5,000, citing religious scripture in their donation. Many smaller donations have also flooded in, with the average contribution being under $40. Donors have expressed their condolences, stating, “Our hearts break for this family,” and emphasizing the community’s Christian values of compassion and support.
However, not all reactions have been positive. The family of shooting victim Craig Hayden, who was killed while helping others escape, has declined to comment on the fundraiser. A relative of Hayden expressed sympathy for the shooter’s family, stating, “They need it. They need more love and compassion than we do.”
Authorities have yet to disclose a motive for the shooting. Friends of Sanford describe him as a devoted family man who struggled with personal issues, including drug addiction. In stark contrast, local politician Kris Johns reported that Sanford had previously expressed anti-Mormon sentiments, which raises questions about the events leading up to the shooting.
Butler remains steadfast in his belief that this initiative reflects the teachings of their faith, indicating that the overwhelming response from the community demonstrates a commitment to compassion. He acknowledged receiving both supportive and critical messages, stating, “If your response to this is to criticize Mormons or to try and cut them out, man, I just think you’re not seeing all the love.”
The Sanford family has indicated they will accept the donations, with their attorney praising the community’s unprecedented display of support. “The fundraising effort for our family is an unprecedented display of compassion and grace, for which we are deeply grateful,” the attorney stated.
As this story develops, it raises profound questions about the nature of tragedy and the communities affected by violence. The urgency of this situation continues to resonate, and the conversation surrounding it is likely to evolve as more details emerge.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this unfolding story as the community navigates the aftermath of this devastating event.
