On Saturday, July 26, 2025, a horrific mass stabbing unfolded at the Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City, Michigan, leaving 11 individuals injured. Authorities have identified the suspect as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille, a resident of Afton, Michigan. Gille, who acted alone, faces one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder, as announced by Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea during a press conference on Sunday, July 27.

The attack began around 4:45 p.m. at the Walmart located at Crossing Circle in Garfield Township. Gille entered the store at 4:10 p.m. and, armed with a folding knife featuring a 3.5-inch blade, began randomly stabbing shoppers near the checkout area before moving through multiple departments. The victims, ranging in age from 29 to 84, included five men and six women, one of whom was a Walmart employee. As of Sunday, Munson Medical Center reported that seven victims were in fair condition and four remained in serious condition, with all expected to survive.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos and terror as shoppers fled in all directions. Tasha Nash, a Walmart employee, recounted, “The whole store started screaming and running. There was a guy with a knife—he stabbed six people. I saw one man stabbed in the eye.” Amber Paull noted that the attacker appeared to target people randomly in the produce and grocery sections, with victims including an elderly woman and a young child. One family friend reported that their loved one, who suffered a slash to the throat, is expected to recover.

The rampage was halted not by law enforcement but by the courageous actions of bystanders. Among them were U.S. Marine Corps veteran Matthew Kolakowski and his brother-in-law, Chris O’Brien, who were in Traverse City on a family vacation. Hearing a store employee shout, “He’s got a knife!” Kolakowski secured his daughter and her friend before pursuing the suspect. Using a shopping cart, he struck Gille in the Achilles tendon, causing him to collapse. Another bystander, armed with a legally carried firearm, confronted Gille in the parking lot, demanding he drop the knife. Several citizens then tackled and restrained the suspect until a sheriff’s deputy, who was nearby and arrived within three minutes of the first 911 call at 4:43 p.m., took Gille into custody without further incident.

Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg explained the terrorism charge, stating that the attack’s random nature was intended to “put fear in the entire community” and disrupt daily life. Gille, who has a prior criminal history of assault and controlled substance violations, is being held at the Grand Traverse County Jail, with arraignment expected on Monday, July 28, or Tuesday, July 29. A terrorism conviction carries a potential life sentence. Authorities have not yet determined a motive, noting “minimal conversation” with Gille, and the FBI is assisting in the ongoing investigation.

The community has been deeply shaken by the violence in Traverse City, a small town of about 16,000 known for its beaches, wineries, and annual cherry festival. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed solidarity, stating on X, “I’m in touch with law enforcement about the horrible news out of Traverse City. Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence.” State Representative Betsy Coffia and State Senator John Damoose also voiced support, urging the community to come together.

In response to the trauma, free counseling services are being offered at the Innovation Center on Northwestern Michigan College’s campus from Monday to Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with potential extensions based on demand. The Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis and Access Center at 410 Brook Street provides 24-hour counseling, and a crisis hotline is available at 833-295-0616.

Sheriff Shea praised the bystanders’ bravery, stating, “What they did was amazing.” He requested privacy for those who intervened, noting their actions likely prevented further harm. Authorities are urging anyone with video footage or information to contact the Traverse City Police or the FBI tip line to aid the investigation.

The Walmart remains closed as the investigation continues, with police tape sealing off much of the parking lot. Walmart spokesperson Joe Pennington condemned the attack, saying, “Violence like this is unacceptable. Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.” The community continues to rally around the victims, with prayers and support pouring in for those affected by this tragic event.