A 42-year-old Michigan resident, identified as Bradford James Gille, entered a Traverse City Walmart near the checkout area around 4:45 p.m. Saturday armed with a folding knife. He stabbed 11 shoppers and employees in what Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea described as "random acts" targeting victims "not predetermined." The attack unfolded rapidly, with eyewitness Julia Martell reporting screams and "blood everywhere" as the assailant shoved and stabbed people near the pharmacy section. Victims ranged from 21 to 84 years old, including six men and five women.
Bystanders played a critical role in stopping the violence. Within three minutes of the first 911 call, shoppers surrounded Gille in the parking lot, shouting "drop the knife!" while one bystander drew a firearm. Witness Steven Carter described seeing a group tackle and subdue Gille before deputies arrived. Sheriff Shea credited "citizen involvement" with preventing further casualties, noting the swift apprehension reflected "remarkable" community courage. Shoppers also administered first aid to victims before paramedics arrived.
All 11 victims were rushed to Munson Medical Center, where six initially faced critical injuries and five were in serious condition. By Sunday, seven had improved to fair condition, while four remained serious. One patient was discharged after treatment. Hospital officials reported "encouraging signs of recovery" but emphasized ongoing care for traumatic wounds. The hospital activated its mass-casualty protocol, diverting non-emergency cases to handle the influx.
Prosecutors are pursuing terrorism charges alongside 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg argued the attack aimed "to affect the entire community" by instilling fear in daily life. The FBI is assisting the investigation, though no ideological motive has been confirmed. Gille has a prior record for assault and drug violations. Walmart condemned the violence and is cooperating with law enforcement, though the store remains closed indefinitely.