Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea confirmed that six of the victims are in serious condition. The attacker, 42-year-old Bradford Gille of Afton, Michigan, was arrested and faces one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder.

According to authorities, Gille had prior incidents involving assault and drug-related offenses. Sheriff Shea said the attack appeared to be random, with victims not targeted in advance. “The individual was detained within one minute,” Shea noted, calling the response “remarkable.”

Gille used a folding knife near a checkout counter around 4:45 p.m. Witnesses described chaotic scenes. Walmart employee Tasha Nash said, “The whole store started screaming and running. I saw someone stabbed in the eye.”

Tiffany DeFell, who was outside during the attack, said, “This is something you see in movies. Not in your hometown.” Steven Carter, also in the parking lot, thought it might be a terror attack. “It all happened fast… he was subdued by the time police arrived,” he said.

Walmart issued a statement thanking law enforcement and expressing concern for those injured. “Violence like this is unacceptable,” said spokesperson Joe Pennington. “We’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.”

The motive for the attack is still under investigation, and Gille remains in custody at the county jail.

This shocking event has left the local community shaken but grateful for the rapid response that likely saved lives. Authorities are continuing their investigation as support for the victims grows.