Hero marine veteran subdues suspect after 11 injured in Walmart stabbing

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A former U.S. Marine is being hailed as a hero after subduing a knife-wielding attacker accused of injuring 11 people during a violent stabbing at a Michigan Walmart on Saturday afternoon.

Hero stops horrifying stabbing at Walmart

Authorities say Derrick Perry, a retired Marine and licensed firearm holder, intervened when Bradford James Gille, 42, allegedly began randomly stabbing shoppers with a folding pocket knife inside the store. Perry drew his concealed weapon and held Gille at gunpoint until police arrived, preventing further injuries.

The incident unfolded around 4:43 p.m. at the Traverse City Walmart, a popular retail hub in northern Michigan. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as customers fled the store. Surveillance and bystander footage showed Perry and other civilians confronting Gille in the parking lot, shouting commands and ultimately forcing him to drop the weapon.

Suspect’s charges

Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg confirmed Gille faces 11 counts of assault with intent to murder and a terrorism charge, citing his alleged intent to instill fear across the community.

“This was a random act of violence meant to disrupt and terrify,” Moeggenberg said at a Sunday press conference.

Sheriff Mike Shea praised Perry and other bystanders for their swift action. Shea noted that Gille was detained within one minute of the initial 911 call.

“Their courage likely saved lives,” Shea said.

Walmart stabbing victims

Victims ranged in age from 21 to 84, including one Walmart employee.

Statement by Walmart

Walmart issued a statement condemning the violence and commending first responders. The store remains closed pending the investigation.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also responded, saying, “Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence.”

The FBI is assisting local authorities in the ongoing investigation.