Knife Attack at Walmart in Traverse City Injures 11

News Summary

A 42-year-old man has been arrested following a knife attack at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, injuring 11 people. Bradford James Gille faces terrorism charges and assault with intent to murder. The attack occurred in the afternoon, leading to rapid responses from law enforcement and emergency services. While the motive remains unclear, the community is reeling from the violence. Counseling services have been established for victims and residents, and the store has since reopened as investigations continue.

Traverse City, Michigan – A 42-year-old man, Bradford James Gille from Afton, Michigan, faces serious legal repercussions following a knife attack at a Walmart store in Traverse City that left 11 people injured on Saturday afternoon. Authorities are pursuing terrorism charges and 11 additional counts of assault with intent to murder against Gille, who was arrested shortly after the incident.

The violent incident occurred around 4:43 PM when Gille allegedly used a folding knife with a 3.5-inch blade to attack shoppers within the store. The victims, including five men and six women aged between 21 and 84 years old, sustained various degrees of injuries, with one being a Walmart employee. Emergency services were activated rapidly, and law enforcement arrived on the scene just two minutes after receiving the reports of the attack.

Witnesses reported chaos as bystanders intervened, with a citizen armed with a pistol confronting Gille in the parking lot and preventing further violence. Law enforcement officials successfully apprehended Gille without additional incidents. He is currently held at the Grand Traverse County Jail, awaiting formal charges and a court hearing expected on Monday or Tuesday.

As investigators delve into the case, the motive behind the attack remains unclear. The sheriff indicated that there is no established reason for Gille’s actions at this time. There are indications that he may have previously resided in the vicinity of Grand Traverse County, suggesting some familiarity with the area.

In response to the attack, a Walmart representative condemned the violence, emphasizing that actions like these are intolerable. Michigan’s Attorney General expressed appreciation for the quick and effective responses from law enforcement, emergency medical teams, and the local community that likely prevented greater harm.

By Monday morning following the attack, reports indicated that the conditions of the injured individuals were stabilizing. One person was in serious condition, five were listed as fair, and two were reported to be in good condition. Additionally, two patients had either been treated and transferred or released from the hospital.

In light of the violence, counseling services have been made available for victims and community members at the Northwestern Michigan College Innovation Center in Traverse City. As of August 6, 2025, all 11 injured individuals had either been discharged or moved to different medical facilities.

Gille, during his arraignment on July 28, pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and has been assigned a court-appointed attorney to represent him. Surveillance records indicate that the attack was premeditated, happening just 35 minutes after Gille entered the store.

Local residents and officials have expressed shock at the incident, highlighting how rare such violence is in a community typically known for its safety and tranquility. The authorities continue their investigation into the matter, collaborating with the FBI to review Gille’s mental health history and any prior legal issues that might provide context, including previous assault cases and involuntary hospitalizations.

The Walmart store where this incident took place reopened on July 30, aiming to restore a sense of normalcy to the community. The ongoing investigation remains focused on understanding the motivations behind this shocking event and ensuring community safety moving forward.

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