Authorities have released the mugshot of 42-year-old Bradford James Gille of Afton, Michigan, who has been formally charged after allegedly stabbing 11 shoppers inside a Walmart in Traverse City on July 26, 2025, at approximately 4:45 p.m.
Gille faces one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. Prosecutors are pursuing the case as a terror-based indictment, though a motive has not yet been confirmed.
Details of the Attack
The stabbing began near a checkout counter, with Gille reportedly using a 3.5-inch folding knife to attack victims at random, including one Walmart employee.
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Gille entered the store at 4:10 p.m. and launched the attack roughly 30 minutes later.
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Six victims were initially in critical condition, and five in serious condition.
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By the next day, all victims were stable or in fair condition and are expected to survive.
According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff, the victims ranged in age from 29 to 84 and included both men and women:
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84-year-old woman
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82-year-old man
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80-year-old woman
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70-year-old man
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67-year-old woman
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65-year-old woman
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55-year-old man
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40-year-old man
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39-year-old man
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38-year-old man
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29-year-old woman
Heroic Bystanders Stepped In
Eyewitness video captured the aftermath in the parking lot, where bystanders—one of them armed—confronted Gille and restrained him before law enforcement arrived minutes after the 911 calls.
When taken into custody, Gille reportedly gave minimal response to deputies. His arraignment is expected Monday or Tuesday.
Criminal History and Investigation
Authorities confirmed that Gille has a prior criminal record involving assault allegations and controlled substance violations.
The sheriff noted that Gille may have previously lived in Grand Traverse County, but it remains unclear why he was in the area at the time of the attack.
The prosecutor’s office will officially authorize charges on Monday.
