TRAVERSE CITY, MI — Authorities have identified 42-year-old Bradford James Gille as the suspect behind the stabbing spree that left 11 individuals injured at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, on Saturday, July 20, 2025. Gille, a resident of Cheboygan County, now faces multiple charges, including one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder, following the violent attack that officials describe as a random act of violence.

The incident, which occurred around 4:10 p.m., shocked the community and has left many searching for answers about the suspect’s motives. Gille is alleged to have entered the Walmart armed with a folding knife and began randomly attacking shoppers, leading to an immediate and intense law enforcement response.

A Chilling Attack

According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea, Gille’s attack was unprovoked and targeted unsuspecting victims near the checkout area of the store. “It appears these were all random acts,” Shea said in a press conference following the attack.

The victims, whose ages ranged from 29 to 84, included six men and five women, with three victims in their 80s and one in their 70s. The violence spread throughout the store, with one person being stabbed outside, another in the vestibule, and the remaining nine victims within the store itself. The chaos prompted shoppers to flee the store in terror, and emergency services were quickly called to the scene.

Security cameras in the store captured nearly all of the incident, providing investigators with valuable evidence. The footage showed Gille as he methodically moved through the store, attacking multiple individuals.

Brave Bystanders Help Subdue Gille

One of the most remarkable aspects of the attack was the swift intervention of bystanders, who helped subdue Gille before law enforcement arrived. “What they did was amazing,” said Sheriff Shea. “There’s no doubt their actions saved lives.” One bystander, who was armed with a firearm, drew his weapon and confronted Gille, giving other shoppers and store employees the chance to assist in restraining the attacker.

Within a minute of the attack, a nearby sheriff’s deputy, who was patrolling the area, responded and arrested Gille at the scene. Authorities confirmed that Gille made no verbal threats or statements during the attack, and the motive behind the stabbing remains under investigation.

“We’re thankful no one else was injured,” said Sheriff Shea. “Eleven is 11 too many—but thank God it wasn’t more.”

Victim’s Conditions and Hospitalization

Munson Healthcare officials initially reported that six of the victims were in critical condition, while five others were in serious condition. The victims were immediately treated and rushed to local hospitals, where doctors and nurses worked tirelessly to stabilize their conditions. By Sunday morning, seven of the victims had improved to fair condition, and as the day progressed, five remained in fair condition, four were still in serious condition, and one victim was released from the hospital.

The attack left the community in shock, and officials have expressed gratitude for the swift action of law enforcement and the courageous individuals who helped stop the violence. “Our hearts are with the victims and their families,” Sheriff Shea said, adding that the community has shown tremendous resilience in the wake of the traumatic event.

Background on the Suspect: Bradford James Gille

Bradford James Gille was a subject of interest for law enforcement even before the attack. Just one day before the stabbing spree, the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office had been actively searching for Gille after receiving a court order from the 7th Probate Court of Emmet County. The court had directed law enforcement to take Gille into custody, but authorities did not disclose the reason for the order at the time.

Sheriff’s officials confirmed that Gille was considered homeless when the court order was issued. The sheriff’s office expressed its regret over the tragic turn of events, noting that they had hoped to resolve the situation peacefully before the attack occurred. “Regrettably, less than 24 hours after receiving this order, a tragic series of events occurred in Traverse City,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved in this devastating situation.”

Terrorism Charge and Investigation

In addition to the assault charges, Gille has been charged with terrorism, a charge that stems from the belief that the suspect intended to instill fear and terrorize the community. Grand Traverse County Prosecuting Attorney Noelle Moeggenberg confirmed that the terrorism charge is based on Gille’s actions in attempting to create fear and chaos during the attack.

Officials have indicated that Gille is expected to be arraigned on Monday, and the investigation into his motives and actions continues. At this time, investigators believe that Gille acted alone and there are no additional suspects being sought. However, authorities are not ruling out the possibility that other factors, such as mental health issues or personal grievances, may have played a role in the attack.

While the investigation into Gille’s background is ongoing, authorities have not released further information about his previous criminal history or potential links to other incidents. Law enforcement agencies are working to gather more details, including interviews with witnesses, to better understand the motivations behind the random and violent act.

The Impact on the Community

The stabbing spree has left a lasting impact on the Traverse City community. Residents, many of whom frequent the Walmart, have expressed their shock and fear following the incident. In addition to the physical injuries suffered by the victims, the emotional toll on witnesses and the local community has been significant.

One witness, who was shopping at the time of the attack, described the scene as chaotic and terrifying. “People were running everywhere. There was blood everywhere. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life,” said the witness, who wished to remain anonymous. “I’m just thankful that people stepped in to stop him.”

Local businesses have also expressed concern for the safety of their customers and employees. Traverse City’s business owners and residents are taking steps to ensure their stores and public spaces remain safe, with some even calling for increased security measures in public areas like shopping centers and grocery stores.

Looking Ahead: The Investigation and Legal Proceedings

As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies are working closely to piece together the full details of the attack. The results of the investigation could provide additional insights into Gille’s motives and whether there were any warning signs that might have prevented the tragedy.

The La Porte Police Department, along with federal and state authorities, is committed to following the evidence wherever it leads and ensuring that justice is served. Gille’s upcoming arraignment will be a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings, as it marks the beginning of the process to hold him accountable for the violence he has inflicted on the community.

Conclusion: A Community Uniting Amid Tragedy

While the events of Saturday, July 20, have left many in Traverse City shaken, the bravery of bystanders, law enforcement officers, and medical personnel has been instrumental in preventing further harm. The community’s resilience and the quick action of those involved have been lauded by officials and residents alike.

As Bradford James Gille faces multiple charges, including terrorism and assault, the community continues to heal from the traumatic event. The focus remains on supporting the victims, providing them with the care they need, and ensuring that justice is served in the aftermath of this violent and random attack. Authorities will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available and as the legal process moves forward.