Grand Blanc Township, Michigan – Family members have confirmed to Channel2 NOW that Craig Hayden was among the victims killed during Sunday’s mass shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township.

In a heartfelt message, local business owner Terry Green shared that his father-in-law, Craig Hayden, lost his life in the attack.

Green, who operates Billmeier Camera, a long-standing family-run business in the community, described Hayden as a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.

“My dear wife Julie is my number one helper, our bonus daughter Katelyn runs the photo lab, and our lifelong friend Miss Kelly helps with framing and the phones,” Green wrote.

“While my wife’s family was at church on Sunday, there was a shooting. My beloved father-in-law Craig Hayden was killed. He did not suffer and is at peace with Jesus in heaven. For this, we take solace. The rest of our family’s lives were spared. Others, sadly, were not so lucky.”

Green also acknowledged the difficult days ahead for his family and their business.

He noted that services at the store will be impacted as they grieve and make arrangements but asked for patience and continued community support. “We still have bills to pay, even when our hearts are broken,” Green said, adding that Miss Kelly would do her best to hold down operations.

Hayden’s death marks the first confirmed fatality from the attack, which authorities say left at least four others dead, including the gunman, and eight additional victims injured.

Police identified the shooter as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton, Michigan, a former Marine who rammed his truck into the church, opened fire with an assault rifle, and set the building ablaze before being killed in a shootout with officers.

The church, now considered a total loss, had been filled with hundreds of worshippers, including children, at the time of the attack.

Investigators continue to search the debris for additional victims.

As the community mourns, Green expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.

“Thank you, friends. I have received many messages expressing your love. It means so much. Hug your loved ones — tomorrow is never promised.”