Terrorism Charges Sought in Traverse City Walmart Mass Stabbing as Victims Recover
Terrorism Charges Sought in Traverse City Walmart Mass Stabbing as Victims Recover
Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg announced Sunday that her office intends to pursue a terrorism charge against Bradford James Gille, 42, in connection with the mass stabbing incident at a Traverse City Walmart on Saturday afternoon. In addition to the terrorism count, Gille will also face 11 counts of assault with intent to murder.
Moeggenberg characterized the attack as “a very random act of violence” designed to instill fear and disrupt the community. Gille, identified as a resident of Afton, Cheboygan County, was apprehended Saturday after allegedly stabbing 11 individuals in the store’s checkout area before being subdued by brave shoppers.
As of Sunday afternoon, the conditions of the 11 victims have shown improvement. Munson Medical Center reported two patients remain in serious condition, eight are stable in fair condition, and one victim has been treated and released. The victims, ranging in age from 29 to 84, are all expected to survive their injuries.
Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael D. Shea confirmed Gille used a folding knife with a three-and-a-half-inch blade. He praised the quick actions of citizens, including one individual with a concealed pistol license, who intervened to stop the assailant. Shea noted that the suspect was detained within one minute of the 911 call, a rapid response that likely prevented further casualties.
Authorities are still working to determine a motive for the attack. Sheriff Shea indicated the suspect appeared to have mental health issues and a history of “assaultive-type” allegations and controlled substance issues. Gille is currently held at the Grand Traverse County jail and is anticipated to be arraigned today, Monday, or tomorrow, Tuesday, depending on court scheduling.
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