A quiet Saturday afternoon turned bloody in Traverse City, Michigan, when a man armed with a folding knife stabbed 11 people inside a Walmart store.
The suspect, 42-year-old Bradford James Gille from Afton, Michigan, was swiftly arrested.
“Based on the information that we have at this time, it appears they were random acts,” said Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea. “The victims were not predetermined.”
Gille reportedly entered the store around 4:10 p.m. and launched the attack near the checkout area at 4:43 p.m.
Witnesses said he moved through the pharmacy section, stabbing and shoving people. “I saw three people with stab wounds and blood everywhere,” said eyewitness Julia Martell.
Citizens Step In as Chaos Unfolds
As panic spread, several shoppers sprang into action. One Marine veteran rammed the attacker with a shopping cart, while another drew a pistol and ordered him to drop the knife.
“Get on the ground! Drop the knife!” they shouted. Gille was subdued within minutes and taken into custody by a sheriff’s deputy.
Sheriff Shea praised the brave bystanders. “It’s not very often that we have citizens that are willing to step up and take action,” he said.
The victims—six men and five women—ranged in age from 29 to 84. One Walmart employee was among those injured.
Munson Medical Centre treated all 11 victims. As of Sunday, two remained in serious condition, while the rest were in fair condition. One person had been released.
Community Shaken, Investigation Underway
Governor Gretchen Whitmer reacted swiftly. “Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence,” she posted on X.
The FBI joined the investigation, offering support to local authorities. Prosecutors are seeking one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder against Gille.

Traverse City, known for its cherry festival and scenic lakeside charm, is now grappling with the aftermath of this shocking violence. “No area is immune to this kind of activity,” Shea warned.
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