Michigan Walmart stabbing suspect charged with terrorism after injuring 11 in random attack

A Saturday(July 26) shopping trip turned into chaos at a Walmart near Traverse City when a man armed with a folding knife randomly attacked shoppers, leaving 11 people injured before being subdued by brave bystanders and police.

Authorities say the suspect, Bradford James Gille, 42, of Afton, Michigan, faces a terrorism charge and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. He is being held without bond at the Grand Traverse County Correctional Facility and is expected to be arraigned this week. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

Unfolded in minutes

The stabbing spree began around 4:45 pm on Saturday in the store’s checkout area, about 30 minutes after Gille entered the store. According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Mike Shea, the suspect used a “standard folding-style knife” with a 3.5-inch blade.

“From everything we can tell right now, this was a completely random act,” Shea said. The suspect acted alone, and investigators have yet to determine a motive.

Before officers arrived, several shoppers stepped up. One bystander, armed with a pistol, confronted Gille in the parking lot and, along with others, helped restrain him.

“What they did was amazing,” Sheriff Shea told reporters Sunday. “They prevented him from harming further people and leaving.”

The quick action likely saved lives, Shea said. Deputies reached the scene within three minutes of the first 911 calls.

Victims range in age from 29 to 84

The injured include both men and women, among them a Walmart employee. Munson Medical Center treated all 11 victims, hospital officials said. One has been discharged; two remain in serious condition, and the rest are listed as fair.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “senseless and horrifying,” while Walmart described the violence as “unacceptable” and said employees will receive support during the store’s closure.

The FBI is assisting local authorities in the search for a motive.