Michigan Church Shooting Update: Deaths Toll Rises To 4, Shooter Former US Marine

While search for more possible victims has continued at the Michigan church after shooting and setting the place on fire, death toll has increased with at least four people killed.

Several others were also reported wounded after authorities say a 40-year-old man rammed his car into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan, this morning before opening fire on worshippers and intentionally setting the building ablaze.

The gunman is dead and the motive remains unknown as federal officials investigate the incident as targeted violence.

The man suspected of opening fire on a Michigan LDS church on Sunday was a 40-year-old veteran of the Iraq War, according to officials.Brenda Walters-Sanford

The CNN report says at least four people are confirmed dead, with at least two of those deaths being from gunshot wounds, according to police. Officials say eight others were injured, including children, a source familiar with the incident told CNN. Authorities said they believe they will find more victims after they secure the chapel which is now a “total loss.”

The gunman: A 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan was identified as the shooter, according to Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye. The man used an assault rifle during the attack and was ultimately shot and killed by police, Renye added. Officials believe there is only one person involved. “We believe we have the guy who did this,” he said.

The man suspected of opening fire on a Michigan LDS church on Sunday was a veteran of the Iraq War, according to officials.

The investigation: The FBI is now leading the case and is investigating the incident as an “act of targeted violence,” according to Reuben Coleman, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Detroit Field Office, which covers the entire state of Michigan. The FBI’s assumption of leadership in the case is notable, as it signals authorities have potentially uncovered violations of federal law.

The fire: Authorities believe the suspect “deliberately” set fire to the church using an accelerant. Some suspected explosive devices linked to the incident were also found, according to James Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Detroit Field Division. It’s unclear if any explosives were also used to start the fire, Deir added.

The search continues: A physical search of the perpetrator’s residence is underway and authorities are working to obtain search warrants for digital media that may help shed light on a motive, a law enforcement source told CNN.