A close friendship forged over fishing trips and years of camaraderie ended in tragedy when a Michigan man opened fire on his longtime coworker during a church service, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Peaceful Worship Shattered by Violence
The quiet sanctity of a Lansing-area Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was brutally disrupted on Tuesday evening when what authorities describe as a workplace dispute escalated into deadly violence. Congregation members watched in horror as 43-year-old John Gatt opened fire on his 46-year-old colleague during the religious gathering.
From Fishing Buddies to Mortal Enemies
Investigators revealed the two men shared more than just a workplace - they were regular fishing companions who had known each other for years. "These individuals had a relationship outside of work, they were fishing buddies," confirmed Michigan State Police Lieutenant Rene Gonzalez, highlighting the personal nature of the tragedy.
The shooting occurred around 7:30 pm at the LDS church on East Grand River Avenue, where both men were present for regular worship services. Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as the peaceful gathering transformed into a crime scene.
Community Left Reeling
Local residents expressed shock and disbelief at the violence erupting in their typically quiet neighbourhood. "You never expect something like this to happen in your community, especially in a place of worship," said one nearby resident who asked to remain anonymous.
The victim, whose identity hasn't been officially released, was rushed to hospital with serious injuries while the alleged shooter was promptly taken into custody at the scene.
Michigan State Police continue to investigate the precise motives behind the attack, though early indications point to unresolved workplace tensions that spilled over into the men's personal lives with devastating consequences.
