One suspect is in custody after a mass stabbing inside Traverse City's Walmart Supercenter, Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said.
Eleven victims are being treated for injuries at Munson Medical Center, which said in a statement that five were in serious condition and six were critical.
Shea confirmed that the victims were injured in a random attack by an assailant who was armed with folding knife.
In a statement released via social media later Saturday, the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office said the suspect is a 42-year-old man who was acting alone.
"A Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Deputy was on scene within minutes and took the man into custody," the Facebook post said. "Citizens in Walmart also assisted in the apprehension and treatment of victims."
Employees were interviewed by Michigan State Police at a nearby restaurant and, at 6:55 p.m. were able to re-enter Walmart to get their belongings.
State Police crime lab personnel are en route to assist with forensics, Shea said.
Writing on the social media site X, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she's in touch with local law enforcement.
I’m in touch with law enforcement about the horrible news out of Traverse City. Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence. I am grateful to the first responders for their swift response to apprehend the suspect.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 26, 2025
Walmart issued a statement on Saturday night.
“Violence like this is unacceptable," it read. "Our thoughts are with those who were injured and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders. We’ll continue working closely with law enforcement during their investigation.”
Reported by the staffs of the Traverse City Record-Eagle and Interlochen Public Radio.
