TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (BN24) — A Michigan man accused of stabbing 11 people at a Walmart in Traverse City is now facing a terrorism charge in addition to multiple counts of assault with intent to murder, local authorities confirmed.
Bradford James Gille, 42, allegedly attacked five men and six women with a folding knife inside the store Saturday afternoon in what investigators describe as a random and unprovoked act of violence. Victims ranged in age from 21 to 84. All 11 were hospitalized, with six in critical condition and five listed as serious, according to Munson Healthcare.
The Grand Traverse County Prosecutor’s Office filed the terrorism charge after determining the mass attack was carried out with the intent to instill fear within the community. While no clear motive has been identified, law enforcement officials said the nature of the violence met the legal threshold for a terrorism-related offense.
Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea said deputies responded to the scene within two minutes of the first 911 call. By the time officers arrived, Gille had been confronted in the parking lot by several bystanders, including an armed civilian, who helped prevent further harm. Gille was taken into custody without incident.
The FBI is assisting in the ongoing investigation, with agents conducting interviews and reviewing evidence in an effort to determine whether the suspect acted alone or may have had ideological motives. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed federal support for the case, though no links to extremist groups have been established at this stage.
Walmart issued a statement condemning the attack, calling the violence “unacceptable” and expressing gratitude to first responders and community members who acted quickly during the crisis.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer extended her sympathies to the victims and praised the coordinated response of local and federal agencies. “This horrific act of violence does not define the people of Traverse City or our state,” she said.
Gille is expected to be arraigned in Grand Traverse County early this week.
