Panic swept through a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, on Saturday evening when a knife-wielding attacker went on a violent spree, leaving at least 11 people stabbed. The bloody rampage, which erupted around 5 p.m., caused terrified shoppers and employees to run for their lives. Authorities say the 42-year-old male suspect used a folding knife to stab victims throughout different sections of the store randomly.
According to law enforcement, the attacker began his rampage near the checkout area, sending waves of chaos through the store. Screams filled the air as panicked customers tried to flee. Shoppers described a scene straight out of a nightmare, with people being stabbed indiscriminately.
“The whole store started screaming and running,” employee Tasha Nash told Channel2 Now.“There was a guy with a knife. He stabbed six people. I saw someone stabbed in the eye.”
Amid the fear and confusion, a pair of Walmart shoppers stepped in, including one armed Michigan civilian who helped subdue the suspect. The suspect was ultimately detained and taken into custody by local authorities. Harrowing video footage captured the tense moments when bystanders confronted the attacker before police arrived.
As the dust settled, emergency vehicles flooded the parking lot. Witnesses described seeing dozens of police cars, ambulances, fire trucks, and crime scene units, according to the New York Post. The entire store was evacuated, employees were sent home, and customers were barred from entering.
Victims Rushed to Michigan Hospital
All 11 victims were transported to Munson Medical Center, the largest hospital in northern Michigan. Six of the victims are reportedly in critical condition, while five others are in serious condition. The hospital acknowledged the surge in patients and extended its support to those affected by the attack.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name or provided a motive. However, they did confirm that the man appears to be a Michigan resident. The FBI has joined the investigation, offering assistance to local law enforcement as the case unfolds.
What started as a typical Saturday evening shopping trip turned into a nightmare no one in that Michigan Walmart will soon forget. Eleven people were stabbed, a store full of panicked customers, and a suspect was taken down thanks to a brave armed shopper who didn’t hesitate.
It’s a terrifying reminder that violence can strike anywhere, even in the most routine places. As investigators piece together the motive behind the mayhem, one thing’s clear. If not for that quick-thinking civilian, this story could’ve ended much worse.
Kendra Quinn 
