Multiple Stabbed in Mass Attack at Traverse City Walmart; Suspect in Custody
TRAVERSE CITY, MI — July 26, 2025 — A horrifying act of violence unfolded Saturday evening inside a bustling Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City, Michigan, leaving at least eleven people injured, several critically, in what authorities have confirmed was a mass stabbing incident.
The attack occurred shortly before 5:00 p.m. at the Walmart on Crossing Circle, prompting local authorities to declare a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) and triggering a massive multi-agency emergency response.
According to early reports and multiple eyewitness accounts, a lone male suspect armed with a knife began attacking shoppers indiscriminately inside the store, moving through several departments—including produce and grocery—before he was subdued and taken into custody by police.
Chaotic Scene, Multiple Critical Injuries
Medical personnel on the scene administered emergency aid, including tourniquets to control heavy bleeding and CPR on at least one individual who had gone into cardiac arrest.
While Grand Traverse County EMS officials initially confirmed at least eleven victims, the full scope of the injuries has not yet been finalized. Victims reportedly include an elderly woman, a child, and multiple adult shoppers, some of whom sustained life-threatening wounds.
Shoppers inside the store at the time described a scene of terror and confusion, with customers and employees screaming, ducking behind displays, and sprinting for exits as the attack unfolded.
Eyewitnesses: ‘It was like something out of a horror movie’
“I saw someone get stabbed in the eye,” said Tasha Nash, a Walmart employee who was working alongside her sister during the attack. “The whole store just started screaming and running.”
Another witness, Amber Paull, said she was near the produce section when she saw a man described as a “foreign guy” begin stabbing people. “An African American man pulled a hero move—he drew his pistol and tried to stop him,” Paull said. “People screamed, employees were yelling for us to run. The suspect managed to slip away briefly before he was caught.”
Kathryn Ann Clark, who was nearby during the event, said her friend’s son and another shopper helped subdue the suspect moments before police arrived.
Despite the panic, officials emphasized that no shots were fired during the incident.
Suspect in Custody, Motive Still Unknown
Shortly after the attack began, Grand Traverse 911 issued a public alert advising residents to avoid the area, though they confirmed there was no ongoing threat after the suspect was taken into custody. His identity has not yet been released.
Authorities are now working to determine a motive behind the attack and have not ruled out any possibilities, including mental health-related factors or targeted violence.
Local law enforcement and state investigators with the Michigan State Police remain on the scene, conducting forensic analysis and collecting witness statements. Walmart management has pledged full cooperation with authorities.
Community Response and Continuing Investigation
The Walmart has been closed indefinitely as the investigation continues. Crisis counselors and mental health support teams are being dispatched to assist traumatized employees and customers.
“This was a truly senseless and terrifying attack,” said a spokesperson for the Traverse City Police Department. “We are working tirelessly to piece together exactly what happened and ensure justice is served.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been briefed on the situation, and her office released a brief statement expressing condolences and support for the victims and families impacted.
Call for Witnesses
Authorities are asking anyone who was inside the store or in the parking lot between 4:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. to come forward with any photos, videos, or firsthand accounts that may aid the investigation.
Tips can be submitted anonymously via Traverse Area Silent Observer at 231-947-8477 or online.
This story is still developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.