Traverse City, Michigan (Rajeev Sharma): A peaceful afternoon at a Walmart store in Traverse City turned chaotic on Saturday when a man launched an unexpected knife attack, injuring at least 11 individuals before being subdued. Authorities have termed the incident a random act of violence, and a suspect is now in custody.
According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, identified only as a 42-year-old male resident of Michigan, entered the store around 4:45 p.m. armed with a folding knife and began assaulting shoppers. Swift action by a nearby sheriff’s deputy, combined with the efforts of store employees, led to the attacker being quickly restrained and arrested at the scene.
“Eleven people injured is already far too many,” said Sheriff Michael Shea, speaking to reporters. “But we’re grateful that it didn’t turn out even worse.”
Emergency personnel, including police, fire units, and medical responders, arrived on site within minutes. The store was quickly cordoned off as investigators launched a detailed inquiry into the events. Scenes from the area showed law enforcement vehicles stationed outside the store and yellow police tape sealing off entrances.
All 11 victims were transported to Munson Healthcare, the region’s primary hospital. Spokesperson Megan Brown confirmed that six patients were currently in critical condition, while five others were in serious but stable condition.
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is cooperating with authorities. However, officials have yet to comment on a possible motive for the attack.
The Michigan State Police advised residents to avoid the area while the investigation remains active. “Information is still coming in, and we are working closely with the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office,” a brief statement read.
Walmart spokesperson Joe Pennington expressed the company’s concern and said Walmart is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation, deferring further comments to law enforcement.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement expressing solidarity with the victims and those affected. “My thoughts are with everyone impacted by this horrifying event,” she said, adding that her office was in communication with local officials.
The FBI has also joined the investigation, with Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirming the agency’s support via social media.
Traverse City, a well-known vacation destination with a population of around 16,000, lies approximately 255 miles northwest of Detroit. The incident has left the tight-knit community shaken as officials continue to piece together the full story behind this alarming act of violence.
