A deadly stabbing rampage at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, was halted thanks to the bravery of a quick-thinking shopper—ex-Marine Derrick Perry—who held the attacker at gunpoint until police arrived.
Authorities say 42-year-old Bradford James Gille entered the store on a quiet Saturday afternoon armed with a folding pocket knife and began randomly stabbing unsuspecting shoppers. Eleven people were wounded in the terrifying spree, which law enforcement has described as a “terror-style” attack meant to instill fear in the broader community.
Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg announced that Gille now faces 11 counts of assault with intent to murder and a charge of terrorism, citing evidence that he intended to terrorize and disrupt daily life in the community.
Civilian Hero Intervenes
As chaos unfolded inside the store, Perry—who was shopping at the time—sprang into action. Drawing his concealed firearm, he confronted Gille in the parking lot and held him at gunpoint. Video circulating online shows Perry and other bystanders shouting commands like “Drop the knife!” and “Get on the ground!” as they cornered the suspect.
Gille, appearing dazed, was eventually subdued after refusing to comply. One man even used a shopping cart as a makeshift weapon to help corral the attacker.
Perry’s daughter and daughter-in-law both praised his actions on social media, calling it a “proud daughter moment” and hailing him as a “true hero.” Supporters across the internet echoed that sentiment, some calling for Perry to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“This is what the Second Amendment is all about,” one commenter wrote. “You are a true hero and this town is blessed for people like you,” another said.
Rapid Response and Community Shock
Sheriff Mike Shea credited the fast action of Perry and other civilians with preventing further carnage. Law enforcement received the first emergency calls at 4:43 p.m., and a deputy arrived just three minutes later. Gille was already in custody by then, thanks to the intervention of bystanders.
“When you stop and look from the time of call to the time of actual custody, the individual was detained within one minute,” Shea said during a press conference Sunday. “That is remarkable. Lord knows how many additional victims there could have been.”
The 11 victims—men and women ranging from ages 21 to 84—included a Walmart employee. Munson Medical Center officials said one person has already been released, two are in serious condition, and the remaining patients are in fair condition.
Reactions and Investigation
In a statement, Walmart said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement. “Violence like this is unacceptable,” the company said. “Our thoughts are with those who were injured and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders.”
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called the attack “brutal,” expressing support for the victims and the shaken community.
The FBI confirmed it is assisting local authorities. Deputy Director Dan Bongino said agents are on standby to “provide any necessary support.”
Gille, a Michigan resident, reportedly showed no remorse after the incident, repeatedly telling officers, “I don’t care.”
Traverse City, known for its cherry festival, wineries, and scenic Lake Michigan coastline, remains on edge as authorities continue piecing together the motive behind the attack. Gille is currently being held at the Grand Traverse County Jail and is expected to be formally arraigned early this week.