Heroic First Responders Capture Chaos at Grand Blanc Twp. Attack

UPDATE: Exclusive bodycam footage reveals the heroic actions of first responders during the deadly attack at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township on September 28, 2023. A shooter claimed the lives of four parishioners, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

New reports confirm that Genesee County Sheriff’s deputies, Dustin Roy and Collette Hunt, who are also trained medics, played a critical role in rescuing victims amidst chaos. The footage captures their urgent response as they fought to save lives inside a burning church, providing a gripping look at the harrowing events of that day.

As gunfire erupted, chaos ensued, but the specialized unit from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office was quick to act. Their unique training allows them to render medical aid while neutralizing threats. “You were hearing on the radio that the shooter was down, but there was concern about a possible second shooter,” said Hunt.

“It was chaos,” said Sheriff Chris Swanson. “These are no ordinary medics. They have tactical helmets, rifles, and trauma kits, looking for the deceased, the injured, and potential threats.”

The attack unfolded on a seemingly ordinary morning, transforming into a nightmare as the church caught fire. “The smoke was so thick you almost began choking,” Roy recalled, emphasizing the desperate circumstances. Both deputies faced intense conditions, with Roy even suffering a severe sinus infection from the smoke.

Throughout the ordeal, Hunt treated three patients while Roy triaged and guided many others to safety. “When I look at that picture, a piece of scripture stands out to me. It’s Isaiah 6:8,” Roy stated, reflecting on the emotional weight of the day.

The aftermath of the attack left the community reeling. “If you had given that shooter an additional 60 seconds without police intervention, it would have been catastrophic,” Roy warned, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

In a poignant moment, Hunt described the scene: “When the steeple fell, it was extremely heart-wrenching. It felt like hell.” Both first responders will carry these memories forever, but their bravery saved lives amidst unimaginable horror.

After the tragedy, Sheriff Swanson issued a powerful message: “Don’t let hate fill the void. That’s what caused the shooting. It was pure hate.” He praised the collaboration of emergency services and the community’s resilience in the face of chaos.

This story is not just about tragedy but also about the strength of the human spirit. As the community begins to heal, the actions of Roy and Hunt serve as a beacon of hope and bravery, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of first responders in life-or-death situations.

As more details emerge, the collective memory of that fateful day will continue to shape the community of Grand Blanc Township. For now, the focus remains on healing and preventing future tragedies.