A stabbing rampage inside a Walmart in northern Michigan left 11 people injured Saturday, but authorities say the toll could have been far worse if not for the swift action of bystanders who tackled the suspect as the attack unfolded.
The suspect, a 42-year-old Michigan man, is in custody. Investigators say he began stabbing people with a folding knife near the checkout area around 4:45 p.m. Local authorities and witnesses say the man was acting alone and without warning.
Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said several people, including Walmart employees and customers, physically intervened to stop the violence.
“They didn’t wait. They didn’t run. They jumped in to stop it,” Shea told reporters. “They are absolute heroes. It could’ve been much, much worse.”
Video from inside the store shows at least two shoppers helping restrain the suspect until a deputy arrived. One shopper reportedly used a shopping cart to slow him down. Another helped hold him to the ground. Shea said the suspect was in custody within 60 seconds of the first 911 call.
Munson Medical Center confirmed all 11 victims were being treated as of Sunday, with six in serious condition and five in fair condition. Some are showing signs of recovery. They are between 21 and 84 years of age.
The suspect faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to murder and terrorism-related offenses. His name has not yet been released.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a statement thanking law enforcement and others who stepped in to help during this “brutal act of violence.”
I’m in touch with law enforcement about the horrible news out of Traverse City. Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence. I am grateful to the first responders for their swift response to apprehend the suspect.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 26, 2025
“Michigan is a place where neighbors look out for each other,” she told AP.
The FBI is assisting in the ongoing investigation. Walmart said it is cooperating fully with authorities and praised the “quick actions” of their associates and customers.
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