11 Injured in Mass Stabbing at Traverse City Walmart: Armed Civilians, Veterans Credited With Ending Brutal Attack

TRAVERSE CITY, MI — July 27, 2025 — What began as a routine Saturday afternoon shopping trip turned into a scene of horror when a man armed with a knife launched a random, brutal stabbing spree inside a Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City.

Authorities have identified the suspect as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille of Afton, Michigan. The attack, which unfolded around 4:50 p.m. on July 20, left 11 people injured, several critically, including elderly shoppers in their 80s.

Thanks to the quick actions of armed civilians and Marine veterans, the suspect was subdued before law enforcement arrived, preventing what officials say could have been an even greater tragedy.

 A Violent, Unprovoked Attack

According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael D. Shea, Gille entered the Crossing Circle Walmart armed with a folding knife and, without warning or provocation, began stabbing random shoppers in various sections of the store.

“He moved quickly and unpredictably through the store, targeting victims in multiple departments,” Shea said at a press conference. “This was a deliberate and violent assault on innocent people.”

Witnesses described sheer panic as screams echoed through the aisles and customers fled in every direction. Some victims collapsed near registers, others near the pharmacy and produce aisles.

One shopper told local media, “There was blood everywhere. People were shouting to run. I saw a man helping an elderly woman who had been stabbed near the neck. It was chaos.”

 Civilian Heroes Step In

Despite the suddenness and scale of the attack, several brave civilians sprang into action. Their efforts, officials say, saved lives.

Among them was Derrick Perry, a licensed concealed-carry holder who drew his firearm and confronted Gille, helping to distract and slow the attacker. Perry did not fire but used his presence and commands to draw attention away from more potential victims.

Simultaneously, Matthew K., a Marine Corps veteran visiting from Kent City with his family, saw Gille stab an elderly woman. He quickly directed his daughter to safety, then grabbed a nearby shopping cart and slammed it into the attacker’s leg, causing Gille to stumble.

Another unidentified Marine veteran joined the effort, drawing his own weapon and holding the suspect at gunpoint outside the store. Together, these civilians detained Gille until police arrived and arrested him without further incident.

Body camera footage and civilian videos show the exact moment Gille was tackled and handcuffed in the parking lot.

Sheriff Shea publicly praised the responders: “Their courage and immediate response prevented even more bloodshed. They are heroes in every sense of the word.”

Victims and Medical Response

Munson Healthcare confirmed that 11 victims were transported to area hospitals. Six remain in critical condition, and five are listed as serious. Emergency tourniquets were used on-site to stabilize some victims before transport.

Several victims were elderly, with at least two suffering cardiac arrest during the incident. Some sustained stab wounds to the neck, chest, arms, and back.

“Please say a prayer for the 11 victims,” wrote one woman whose relative was slashed in the throat. “She’s one of the lucky ones and will recover.”

Traverse City EMS and Fire, alongside multiple law enforcement agencies, responded within minutes and remained on scene through the night.

Investigation and Possible Charges

The FBI has joined the investigation, citing the scale and random nature of the violence. Authorities say multiple charges are expected, including:

• 11 counts of Assault with Intent to Murder
• Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon
• Terrorism enhancements, pending review of motive and planning

Sheriff Shea confirmed Gille has a prior criminal record, including past convictions for assault and controlled substance violations. Authorities say they are reviewing Gille’s social media, phone, and any writings to determine possible motives.

“At this time, there’s no indication of ideological motivation,” Shea added. “But nothing is being ruled out.”

Community in Shock, But United

The Traverse City community, shaken by the violence, has responded with an outpouring of support for the victims and praise for those who stepped in to help.

Walmart issued a statement offering condolences and confirmed that the store will remain closed until further notice. Crisis counselors are being provided for staff and affected families.

Local churches and organizations have begun organizing blood drives, prayer vigils, and support funds for those impacted. A candlelight vigil is planned for Wednesday evening outside the store.

 Justice Ahead, Healing Begins

As the investigation continues, one thing is clear: the courage of ordinary people helped prevent a massacre.

Derrick Perry, Matthew K., and the other unidentified veteran are being hailed nationally for their actions. Despite personal risk, they intervened when it mattered most.

“This could have ended so much worse,” said a Walmart employee who witnessed the chaos. “We owe our lives to the people who stepped in.”

Gille remains in custody and will likely face arraignment later this week.

The attack has sparked fresh discussion about public safety, preparedness, and the role of armed citizens. But for now, the focus in Traverse City remains on healing, accountability, and honoring the heroes and victims of a day that won’t soon be forgotten.