The Detroit Tigers and their fans are reeling after shocking news hit the team and the baseball world on Sunday. Outfielder Riley Greene, one of the brightest young stars in Major League Baseball, has been left devastated following the tragic death of a close family member in the horrifying church attack in Grand Blanc, Michigan.

According to police reports, the attacker — identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, from Burton — drove his pickup truck through the front doors of a Mormon church during Sunday morning service. He then opened fire on worshippers before setting the building on fire, causing the roof to collapse. 

At least two people were confirmed dead, eight others injured, and several more were trapped under the rubble before emergency crews arrived.

Among the victims was Greene’s aunt, who had been a lifelong member of the congregation. She was attending the service that morning when the unthinkable happened. Family members say she was a pillar of faith and community, someone who always encouraged Greene’s career and rarely missed watching his games.

A devastating phone call

Sources close to the Tigers organization revealed that Greene was informed of the tragedy shortly after the team’s morning practice. “He broke down immediately,” one staff member said. “You could see the pain on his face. Baseball was the last thing on his mind — all he cared about was his family.”

Teammates rallied around the 24-year-old, offering hugs and words of support. Reporters noted that the normally lively Tigers clubhouse fell into complete silence. “We all felt it in our hearts,” said a teammate. “When one of us hurts like this, we all hurt.”

Fans in disbelief

News of the connection between Greene and the Grand Blanc tragedy spread quickly across social media, where fans expressed their sorrow and support using the hashtag #PrayersForRiley. 

Many left messages describing how their hearts broke not only for the victims, but also for Greene, who has become a beloved figure in Detroit since making his major league debut.

“I can’t believe this,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Riley is the heart of our team, and now he’s facing the kind of pain no one should go through. Detroit is with you, Riley.”

Outside Comerica Park, flowers, notes, and Tigers jerseys began to appear as fans created a makeshift memorial for Greene’s aunt and the other victims of the church attack.

Official responses

The Detroit Tigers released a statement late Sunday evening: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic events in Grand Blanc and the devastating loss in Riley Greene’s family. Our hearts go out to all the victims, their loved ones, and the entire community. We stand firmly with Riley during this unimaginable time of grief.”

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also addressed the tragedy, calling it “a heartbreaking attack on a sacred space” and offering condolences to all affected families.

Former President Donald Trump, who remains active on social media, condemned the violence and urged prayers for the victims. The fact that the attacker’s vehicle was reportedly decorated with U.S. flags and political signage has fueled speculation online about possible political motives, though authorities have not confirmed any link.

Baseball feels small

For Greene, whose young career has been defined by talent, humility, and a strong bond with fans, the tragedy is a painful reminder that life is much bigger than sports. “Baseball feels so small right now,” said one of his teammates. “We just want Riley to know we’ve got his back — on and off the field.”

It is unclear whether Greene will step away from the game temporarily to be with his family. What is certain is that when he does return, he will be welcomed with an outpouring of love and support from Detroit fans who see him not just as an athlete, but as part of their extended family.

A city in mourning

The Tigers plan to hold a moment of silence at their next home game, with players expected to wear black armbands in memory of the victims. Comerica Park will also feature a memorial display honoring the lives lost in the Grand Blanc church attack.

For now, Detroit stands united in grief — a baseball city carrying the heartbreak of one of its brightest stars. Riley Greene’s loss is not just his own; it is shared by teammates, fans, and a community shaken by senseless violence.

As one fan wrote: “We’ll cheer louder for you than ever, Riley. Because family is bigger than baseball — and Detroit is your family, too.”