A quiet Saturday afternoon turned chaotic when a man went on a violent stabbing rampage at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, injuring at least 11 people in what authorities are calling a random attack.
The incident unfolded on July 26 near the store’s checkout area, where the suspect, a 42-year-old man armed with a folding knife, began attacking shoppers seemingly at random.
He was quickly subdued by bystanders before being taken into custody by police. Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea confirmed the man acted alone and said investigators have not identified a clear motive.
“Based on current information, it appears to be a random act. The victims were not targeted,” Shea said during a press briefing.
Emergency responders transported the wounded to Munson Healthcare facilities. Six of the victims are reported to be in critical condition, while five others are in serious condition.
At least three people have undergone surgery. The victims include both men and women, ranging in age and background, further underscoring the randomness of the assault.
Eyewitness Julia Martell described a terrifying scene, saying she heard screaming from the pharmacy section before seeing the attacker charging through aisles, stabbing at people. “He was running and stabbing people. I saw three people down, bleeding,” she told The New York Times.
The brutal attack has sent shockwaves through the community. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences on social media, calling it a “brutal act of violence.” The FBI is assisting local law enforcement as the investigation continues.
Sheriff Shea commended the courage of shoppers who intervened and helped detain the suspect, possibly preventing further bloodshed.
Traverse City, a popular summer destination on the shores of Lake Michigan, is typically known for its peaceful atmosphere. Saturday’s violence has left residents and visitors alike shaken as officials search for answers in the aftermath of the seemingly senseless attack.
Advertisement
