TRAVERSE CITY, MI — Authorities have identified the suspect in the mass stabbing that took place on Saturday, July 20, 2025, at the Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille of Afton, Michigan. Gille has been formally charged with terrorism, following the violent and unprovoked attack that left 11 individuals hospitalized, some of whom remain in critical condition.

The Attack Unfolds

The attack began just before 5:00 p.m. when 911 calls flooded emergency dispatchers, reporting a stabbing inside the Walmart at Crossing Circle. Law enforcement and emergency responders were immediately dispatched to the scene, where they discovered a chaotic and horrifying scene.

Gille, armed with a knife, entered the store and began attacking customers at random across various departments. The victims, ranging in age and background, were found with stab wounds throughout the store. Several of the victims were reported to be in cardiac arrest upon arrival, and tourniquets were quickly applied by first responders to control severe bleeding.

At least five victims remain in serious condition, while six others are in critical condition, according to Munson Healthcare officials. Among the injured were an elderly woman and a young child, both of whom sustained injuries during the violent assault.

Civilians Step In: The Heroic Actions of Derrick Perry and Matthew K.

While the law enforcement response was swift, the attacker was ultimately brought to a halt not by officers, but by the brave actions of civilians, including Derrick Perry and Matthew K. Perry, a licensed concealed-carry permit holder, confronted Gille as he attempted to flee the scene and escape to the parking lot. Perry, with his firearm drawn, engaged the suspect and helped slow his movement until others joined in.

Matthew K., a Marine Corps veteran from Kent City, Michigan, who was visiting Traverse City with his family, played a pivotal role in stopping the suspect’s rampage. Matthew was exiting the store when he heard a store employee shouting about a man with a knife. Seeing that an elderly woman and another person had already been attacked, Matthew quickly took action.

“After hearing the alarm and seeing people running, I went into ‘Marine Mode’,” Matthew recalled. He grabbed a nearby shopping cart and struck Gille directly in the Achilles tendon, causing the suspect to collapse. This move allowed bystanders to jump in and assist in restraining the assailant. Another unidentified Marine veteran then drew his weapon, holding Gille at gunpoint until he dropped his knife.

Witnesses described a scene of utter chaos, with people screaming and fleeing in all directions as the stabbing spree unfolded across multiple store departments. One Walmart employee described the attack, stating, “There were victims in every department. Some were in cardiac arrest right after the incident.”

The Aftermath: Community Support and Law Enforcement’s Investigation

Witnesses and victims have lauded the civilians’ quick thinking and bravery. One witness, Kathryn Ann Clark, described the heroism of the individuals who confronted and subdued the suspect. “The attacker was on his way out, and they stopped him cold,” she said. “They saved many lives.”

Among the victims, one family member described how their loved one was slashed across the throat but is expected to recover. Other survivors are facing varying degrees of injuries, but the community has rallied around them in the wake of this horrific event.

The Traverse City Police Department has stated that the investigation into the attack is ongoing, though they have not yet filed formal charges against Gille beyond the terrorism-related charges. At present, authorities believe the attack was random and unprovoked.

Traverse City police have urged anyone with video footage or any additional information regarding the attack to contact them immediately to assist with the investigation. Authorities are working to piece together the full scope of the attack and its motivation, with terrorism charges potentially adding further legal consequences for the suspect.

Public Reactions and Calls for Prayers

In the wake of this violent attack, the Traverse City community has come together to support the victims and their families. Social media has been filled with messages of support, including calls for prayers for the injured and gratitude for the swift actions of those who intervened. “Please pray for the 11 victims,” wrote one family friend. “One of them was slashed in the throat, but thankfully, she is expected to recover.”

Walmart employees, first responders, and residents have all expressed their shock and horror at the events that transpired that afternoon. Many have expressed relief that the attacker was apprehended before the situation escalated further, acknowledging the crucial role played by civilians in preventing more loss of life.

Terrorism Charges and Legal Proceedings

Bradford James Gille is currently in custody and faces formal charges, including terrorism, with the potential for additional charges as the investigation continues. The severity of the charges reflects the nature of the attack, as it left a lasting impact on both the victims and the community.

Authorities have stated that further charges may be filed based on the investigation’s findings. Gille’s prior criminal history, including assaultive behavior and controlled substance violations, is also being reviewed by law enforcement as they continue to uncover details about the suspect’s background and motives.

Increased Law Enforcement Presence

In response to the attack, law enforcement agencies have increased their presence at local stores, shopping centers, and public areas to reassure the community and ensure that public spaces remain safe. While the immediate threat has been neutralized, police have advised the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Local authorities, in coordination with the FBI, are continuing to investigate the motivations behind the attack and any potential connections to broader threats. As of now, there is no indication that the attack was part of a coordinated plot, but authorities are keeping all possibilities on the table.

Conclusion: A Community Comes Together

As the investigation continues, the community of Traverse City is focused on healing from the traumatic event. The heroic actions of Derrick Perry, Matthew K., and other civilians who helped subdue the attacker are being widely praised, and they have been credited with preventing further tragedy.

The victims, their families, and the entire community are now left to process the aftermath of the violence. While the emotional and physical scars will take time to heal, the courage displayed by everyday heroes offers a glimmer of hope in the face of terror.

With the investigation still ongoing, authorities are committed to bringing justice to the victims and ensuring the safety of the community in the future.