Grand Blanc Fire Chief on Leave After Deadly Church Tragedy Sparks Union Outrage

The Grand Blanc Township Fire Chief has been placed on administrative leave, and it’s creating a stir across the community.

Chief Jamie Jent Placed on Leave After Church Tragedy

Sources confirm that Fire Chief Jamie Jent, who took the position back in April, is currently on leave. Township officials have declined to comment, saying they can’t discuss personnel matters. But many firefighters worry that Jent could be fired during the township board meeting coming up on October 28.

READ MORE: Security Tightens Nationwide Following Deadly Grand Blanc Church Attack

It all stems from the tragedy on September 28, when a gunman shot several people, killing four, and then set fire to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc Township. Jent and other emergency crews were on the scene that night.

Safety Concerns Reportedly Spark Administrative Action

In the weeks that followed, Jent reportedly raised concerns about unsafe staffing levels in the fire department, claiming they violated national safety and OSHA standards. Sources say those concerns may have led to his administrative leave.

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The unions representing both full-time and part-time firefighters are standing behind Jent. Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union President Matthew Sahr issued a statement supporting the local union, praising their push for better staffing and preparedness. He said he hopes the matter is resolved quickly so everyone can 'continue their work in protecting Grand Blanc Township.'

Meanwhile, MAFF Local 1137, representing part-time firefighters, posted on Facebook that they can’t comment on ongoing matters and referred questions to township administration.

Township Response and Next Steps

Grand Blanc Township Superintendent Dennis Liimatta reiterated the township’s policy of not commenting on personnel issues. Attempts to reach Jent or union leaders for comment haven’t been successful, but several firefighters are expected to attend next week’s board meeting in support of their chief.

Before joining Grand Blanc Township, Jent served as Battalion Chief and Chief Training Officer in Dearborn.