TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — A quiet Saturday afternoon turned into a scene of horror at a Walmart in Traverse City when a man armed with a folding knife stabbed 11 people, leaving six critically injured in what officials have described as a “random and senseless act of violence.”
The Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the stabbing occurred around 4:45 p.m. and involved a 42-year-old male suspect who entered the store and began attacking customers and employees without warning. Authorities say the man used a folding-style knife during the spree, which took place inside the busy store packed with weekend shoppers.
A sheriff’s deputy, who responded within minutes of the initial 911 call, was able to apprehend the suspect with the assistance of civilians who were inside the store at the time. Sheriff Michael Shea commended both law enforcement and bystanders for their swift response, which he said likely prevented further bloodshed.
“Eleven is 11 too many, but thank God it wasn’t more,” Shea told reporters during a press conference held near the crime scene. “We’re deeply grateful to the members of the public who intervened and helped provide aid to the victims.”
Traverse City Walmart Stabbing Leaves 11 Injured, Suspect in Custody
While the suspect’s identity has not yet been released, Shea confirmed that the man is believed to be a Michigan resident. He remains in police custody as investigators work to determine a motive and whether the attack was planned or spontaneous. So far, there is no indication that the victims were specifically targeted.
The victims’ ages and identities have not been disclosed, but Munson Healthcare, the largest medical provider in the region, confirmed that it is treating all 11 individuals at its Traverse City facility. Of the injured, six are currently in critical condition while five are being treated for serious injuries. Hospital spokesperson Megan Brown confirmed that all victims suffered stab wounds.
The attack sent shockwaves throughout the quiet northern Michigan community, which is better known for its cherry festivals, vineyards, and scenic views of Lake Michigan than for violent crime.
Tiffany DeFell, 36, a resident of nearby Honor, said she had just pulled into the Walmart parking lot with her sister when the chaos began to unfold.
“It was really scary. Me and my sister were just freaking out,” DeFell said. “This is something you see out of the movies. It’s not what you expect to see where you’re living.”
As emergency services swarmed the scene, ambulances and police cruisers filled the parking lot of the shopping plaza, which also houses several other retail outlets. Authorities were seen speaking with shaken employees, many still wearing their blue Walmart vests and name tags, as the scene transitioned from emergency response to active investigation.
Michigan State Police and the FBI have both joined the investigation. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced in a social media post that federal agents were on the ground in Traverse City to offer support.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer also weighed in on the tragedy, expressing solidarity with the victims and the local community.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence,” Whitmer said in a statement.
Walmart, in a statement issued shortly after the incident, condemned the violence and pledged full cooperation with investigators.
“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 company said.
Authorities have not yet revealed whether the suspect had a prior criminal record or mental health issues. Investigators are currently combing through security footage, eyewitness accounts, and the suspect’s background to piece together a timeline and possible motive.
Sheriff Shea emphasized the importance of community vigilance and called for patience as authorities continue their work.
“This is a tragic day for Traverse City,” he said. “We ask everyone to keep the victims and their families in your prayers, and to let law enforcement do its job as we seek justice for those affected.”
The Walmart location remains closed as the investigation continues.
Source-NPR
