A man armed with a folding pocket knife carried out a random stabbing spree inside a Walmart in Traverse City on Saturday afternoon, injuring 11 people before being tackled and restrained by bystanders.
Authorities identified the suspect as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille, a Michigan resident. The attack began just after 4:00 p.m. near the store’s front checkout area and appeared to be unprovoked. Victims ranged in age from 29 to 84, and included at least one Walmart employee.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but not before several brave shoppers intervened. Witnesses say multiple customers stepped in to stop the suspect, with one person reportedly using a shopping cart to try to disarm him and another legally armed individual assisting in the confrontation. The suspect was held down until police arrived and took him into custody without further incident.
The injured were transported to Munson Medical Center. As of Sunday morning, hospital officials reported that four victims were in serious condition, seven were in fair condition, and one had already been released. None were in critical condition, and no fatalities had occurred.
Gille now faces 11 counts of assault with intent to murder and a felony terrorism charge, which under Michigan law includes violent acts meant to instill fear or coerce behavior. Investigators say he acted alone and that no motive has been established. The FBI is assisting local law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released a statement offering support to the victims and expressing gratitude to the first responders and civilians who intervened. Walmart also condemned the violence and pledged full cooperation with authorities.
The incident has left the local community shaken, but officials praised the rapid response by both the public and emergency services, which likely prevented an even greater tragedy.
