At least 11 people were injured in a stabbing spree at a Walmart store in Traverse City, Michigan, on Saturday, in what authorities are calling a random act of violence.
A 42-year-old Michigan man has been taken into custody in connection with the attack, Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea confirmed during a press briefing.
“Based on current information, the acts appear to have been random,” Shea said, noting that there is no indication the victims were specifically targeted. He added that the suspect acted alone and used a folding knife during the assault.
According to Munson Healthcare, six of the victims were in critical condition as of Saturday night, while five others remained in serious condition. At least three of the injured were undergoing surgery. The victims include six men and five women.
The attack reportedly began near the checkout area and extended into the pharmacy section of the store. Eyewitness Julia Martell told The New York Times that she heard screams before seeing a man brandishing a knife and attacking customers.
“He was shoving and stabbing people… there was blood everywhere,” the 30-year-old said.
Sheriff Shea said it was a highly unusual and disturbing event for the region. He also credited bystanders for helping detain the suspect until law enforcement arrived. “Citizens inside the Walmart assisted in apprehending the individual,” he noted.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer responded to the incident on X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence.”
Traverse City, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer. The shocking incident has rattled the usually quiet area.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino stated that federal agents are supporting local law enforcement in the ongoing investigation.
