Mass Stabbing At Traverse City Walmart Leaves 11 Injured, 6 Critical; Suspect In Custody (VIDEO)

Traverse City: In a horrifying turn of events at a Walmart in Traverse City, northern Michigan, at least 11 people were stabbed on Saturday evening (July 26), leaving six critically injured and five in serious condition.

The attack was described by authorities as a seemingly random act of violence and the suspect, a Michigan resident, is in police custody now.

How the Incident Unfolded

The stabbing unfolded unexpectedly at the busy retail store. As per reports, witnesses described scenes of panic as people fled the area. Among them was 36-year-old Tiffany DeFell from Honor, located about 25 miles away, who recounted the terrifying moments from the car park.

“It was really scary. Me and my sister were just freaking out. This is something you see out of the movies. It’s not what you expect to see where you’re living," she told reporters.

Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea confirmed that a folding-style knife was believed to be used in the attack. “Eleven is 11 too many, but thank God it wasn’t more,” he said during a press briefing.

Victims in Hospital, Investigation Underway

All 11 victims are being treated at Munson Healthcare, the region’s largest hospital. Hospital spokesperson Megan Brown confirmed late Saturday that six patients remain in critical condition, with five listed as serious.

Michigan State Police initially announced the arrest of the suspect, and while Sheriff Shea acknowledged the individual is a local resident, further details about their identity or motive have not yet been disclosed.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her support to those impacted, stating, “Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence.”

Walmart issued a statement pledging full cooperation with the investigation, adding, “Violence like this is unacceptable. Our thoughts are with those who were injured and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.”

The FBI has also offered assistance, with Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirming the bureau’s involvement via social media.