TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — In a heartbreaking event at a Walmart store on Saturday, a man wielding a knife injured at least 11 people, six of whom are reported in critical condition. Local law enforcement described this incident as seemingly random, and a suspect has been taken into custody.
Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea addressed the media, stating, “Eleven seriously wounded is too many, but it’s a blessing it wasn’t worse.” This incident marks a distressing moment for the community.
As chaos ensued, onlookers were stunned, including Tiffany DeFell, a 36-year-old resident from Honor, just 25 miles from the store. “It was terrifying. My sister and I were just panicking. This is just something you’d expect to see in a movie, not in real life here,” she recounted.
Reports have confirmed that all the victims are receiving care at the largest hospital in the area, Munson Healthcare. Spokesperson Megan Brown provided updates, noting that six individuals remain in critical condition while five others are dealing with serious injuries.
Sheriff Shea revealed that the attack was carried out with a folding knife. Michigan State Police confirmed earlier in the day that the suspect had been arrested, hinting that he is a resident of Michigan, though no further information was disclosed.
The state’s governor, Gretchen Whitmer, expressed her condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the victims and the community coping with such a horrific act of violence.”
Walmart released a statement emphasizing their commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation, stating, “Acts of violence like this are intolerable. Our thoughts are with everyone injured and we are grateful for the rapid response of the emergency team.”
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced via social media that the bureau is on-site to extend any necessary support during this investigation.
Situated on the picturesque shore of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a well-visited destination known for its cherry festival, regional wineries, and scenic lighthouses, located about 25 miles east of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
