Tragic Incident at Walmart in Traverse City
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — Eleven people were stabbed at a Walmart in Traverse City on Saturday — with six in critical condition — in what a Michigan sheriff said appeared to be a random act. A suspect was in custody, authorities said.
The Incident Unfolds
Around 4:45 p.m., a 42-year-old man entered the store and used a folding knife to stab 11 people, the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement on social media. A sheriff’s deputy arrived within minutes and took the man into custody, and people in the store also helped apprehend the suspect and treat victims, the sheriff’s office said.
The victims’ ages weren’t immediately released.
“Eleven is 11 too many, but thank God it wasn’t more,” Sheriff Michael Shea told reporters.
Response and Investigation
Emergency vehicles and uniformed first responders gathered in the parking lot of the shopping center that houses several other retail stores. Authorities also were seen interviewing employees, still wearing blue uniform vests and name tags, nearby as the response gave way to an investigation.
Tiffany DeFell, 36, who lives in Honor, about 25 miles from Traverse City, said she was in the store’s parking lot when she saw chaos erupt around her.
“It was really scary. Me and my sister were just freaking out,” she said. “This is something you see out of the movies. It’s not what you expect to see where you’re living.”
Medical Update
Munson Healthcare said via social media that 11 people were being treated at the region’s largest hospital in northern Michigan. Spokesperson Megan Brown said all were stabbing victims. Six people were critical and five were in serious condition late Saturday, she said.
Suspect and Investigation
Shea said the weapon involved appeared to be a folding-style knife. Shea said the suspect is believed to be a Michigan resident but declined to share further details. Michigan State Police had said earlier in the day that the suspect was in authorities’ custody.
Reaction from Authorities and Community
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said: “Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence.”
Walmart said in a statement that it would continue to work closely with law enforcement in the investigation.
“Violence like this is unacceptable. Our thoughts are with those who were injured and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders,” the statement said.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said in a social media post that bureau officials were responding to “provide any necessary support.”
Traverse City is a popular vacation spot on the coast of Lake Michigan. It is known for its cherry festival, wineries and lighthouses and is about 25 miles east of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Breaking News
Conclusion
The incident at the Walmart in Traverse City is a tragic reminder of the unpredictability of violence and the importance of community response. The swift action of first responders and the support of authorities are crucial in such situations. As the investigation continues, it is essential to remember the victims and their families, and to work towards preventing such incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened at the Walmart in Traverse City?
A: Eleven people were stabbed at a Walmart in Traverse City on Saturday, with six in critical condition. A suspect was taken into custody, and authorities are investigating the incident.
Q: What was the condition of the victims?
A: Six people were in critical condition, and five were in serious condition late Saturday, according to Munson Healthcare.
Q: Who was the suspect?
A: The suspect was a 42-year-old man, believed to be a Michigan resident. Further details about the suspect have not been released.
Q: What was the reaction of authorities and the community?
A: Authorities, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Walmart, have condemned the violence and expressed support for the victims and their families. The community is also coming together to respond to the incident and support those affected.
