Random Stabbing Attack At Michigan Walmart Leaves 11 Injured, 6 Critically

 

A quiet afternoon in Traverse City, Michigan, turned into a scene of chaos and horror Saturday after a man randomly stabbed 11 people inside a Walmart store, leaving six in critical condition.

The attack occurred around 4:45 p.m. in the checkout area of the Walmart in Garfield Township, a suburb of Traverse City. According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect — a 42-year-old Michigan resident — used a folding knife to carry out the stabbing spree. Officials say the victims were targeted at random, with no evidence of premeditated selection.

“It appears that these were all random acts,” Sheriff Michael Shea said during a press briefing. “The victims were not predetermined.”

Emergency crews and bystanders responded within minutes. Shoppers and employees worked alongside police and paramedics to restrain the suspect and help the wounded.

A sheriff’s deputy took the man into custody on-site. Authorities have not yet released his name or details about a potential motive. No other suspects are believed to be involved.

Eyewitnesses Describe Terror Inside the Store

Anna Luke, a 20-year-old employee, described the terrifying moments to local news. “I was just at the register, and all I hear is ‘someone’s got a knife.’ I heard people crying and calling their loved ones,” she said.

Outside the store, emergency vehicles filled the parking lot. Footage showed stunned employees in their uniforms speaking with authorities as the store was secured and the investigation began.

Tiffany DeFell, a shopper in the parking lot at the time, said, “It was really scary. Me and my sister were freaking out. This is something you see in movies — not what you expect to see where you’re living.”

A bystander video shows people confronting the suspect outside the store, shouting for him to drop the knife and get on the ground. Others tended to victims nearby.

Multiple Victims Undergo Surgery

All 11 victims, consisting of six men and five women, were transported to Munson Healthcare facilities in northern Michigan. As of Saturday night, six remained in critical condition and five were in serious condition. Three had already undergone surgery, according to the sheriff’s office.

Authorities have not yet released the victims’ names or ages.

Investigation Ongoing, Community in Shock

The incident has shaken the Traverse City community, a town of about 16,000 residents known for its scenic lakefront, cherry orchards, and summer tourism. Officials and residents alike expressed disbelief.

“Violence like this is unacceptable,” a Walmart spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “horrible news” and praised the quick response from law enforcement and medical teams.

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a Traverse City resident, shared his support online: “Along with the whole Traverse City community, Chasten and I are shaken by the awful and senseless violence at Walmart earlier today.”

The Michigan State Police Crime Lab and FBI are assisting local law enforcement in the investigation. As of now, the suspect remains in custody, and charges are expected soon.

Sheriff Shea emphasized that acts of violence like this are rare for the area but serve as a stark reminder: “Unfortunately, no one is immune to this.”