TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN — Authorities have identified 42-year-old Bradford James Gille of Afton, Michigan, as the suspect behind Saturday’s mass stabbing at a Walmart Supercenter in Traverse City.

The random and violent attack left 11 people injured, including victims in their 80s.

According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael D. Shea, Gille is believed to have acted alone, and officials are “very confident” in his identification as the perpetrator.

The attack unfolded shortly before 5 p.m. on July 20, when Gille allegedly entered the store armed with a folding knife and began stabbing customers in multiple departments without provocation.

Victims were reported across the store, with some sustaining critical injuries. Munson Healthcare confirmed it is treating 11 individuals—five are listed in serious condition and six remain in critical condition.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos and terror as customers fled in all directions. Some victims reportedly went into cardiac arrest, and others were treated with emergency tourniquets before transport to nearby hospitals.

Despite the sudden violence, several civilians acted decisively to end the attack.

Among them was Derrick Perry, a licensed concealed-carry holder, who confronted the suspect with his firearm, risking his own life to protect others. Perry’s brave actions allowed time for others to assist in disarming the suspect.

Also instrumental in stopping the assailant was Matthew K., a Marine Corps veteran visiting from Kent City with his family.

After hearing the emergency alert over the store’s intercom and witnessing the suspect stab an elderly woman, Matthew directed his daughter to safety and used a shopping cart to strike the suspect in the leg, causing him to fall forward. He was soon joined by another Marine veteran who held the suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.

Bodycam and civilian footage from the incident captured the moment shoppers tackled and subdued Gilley in the parking lot. Law enforcement arrived within minutes and took the suspect into custody without further incident.

The FBI has joined the investigation, and authorities say charges against Gilley may include multiple counts of assault with intent to murder, with possible terrorism enhancements pending further review. Sheriff Shea confirmed Gilley has a prior criminal history that includes assaultive behavior and controlled substance violations.

Residents, store employees, and loved ones of victims have taken to social media to express gratitude for the brave civilians who intervened. “Please say a prayer for the 11 victims,” wrote one family member, whose relative was slashed in the throat during the rampage. “She is one of the lucky ones and will recover.”

Traverse City Police, Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, and emergency medical services responded en masse. Local authorities advised the public to avoid the Walmart area on Crossing Circle as first responders remained on scene into the evening.

Officials confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the community. The investigation remains active.