A brave Marine veteran wielding a handgun stopped a knife-wielding attacker who had just stabbed 11 people at a Walmart store in Traverse City, Michigan.
According to the New York Post, Derrick Perry, identified by family members as a Marine veteran, confronted the suspect in the parking lot after a violent stabbing spree inside the store. The incident occurred approximately 255 miles northwest of Detroit on Saturday evening, around 5 p.m.
Dramatic cellphone footage captured Perry ordering the suspect to drop his weapon while other brave customers helped contain the situation. The video shows Perry maintaining his composure while brandishing a small handgun, repeatedly commanding the attacker to surrender his knife.
Heroic Intervention Prevents Further Casualties
The suspect, later identified as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille, had already wounded multiple victims inside the store when Perry intervened. Several other shoppers joined Perry in the parking lot, helping to corner and subdue the attacker until law enforcement arrived.
Gille now faces serious charges, including terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea revealed that the suspect has previous arrests for drug offenses and vandalism.
The victims' ages range from 29 to 85 years old, with more than half being over 60. Initially, six victims were in critical condition, while five were in serious condition.
Community Rallies Behind Marine Veteran
Perry's daughter expressed pride in her father's actions through a Facebook post, calling it a "proud daughter moment." His daughter-in-law also praised him as a "true hero" for his quick thinking and brave response.
Social media users have called for Perry to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his courageous intervention. Many commenters emphasized how armed citizens can help prevent further tragedy in dangerous situations.
Local resident Angela Helfrich, who witnessed the attack while shopping with her fiancé, described the scene as "very panicky, very scary." She expressed gratitude for the intervention that potentially saved more lives.
Medical Response and Investigation Continues
By Sunday, hospital officials at Munson Medical Center reported improvement in the victims' conditions. Four patients remained in serious condition, while seven were upgraded to fair condition.
Former US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a Traverse City resident, expressed being "shaken by the awful and senseless violence" that occurred at the local Walmart. The incident has deeply affected the tourist destination's tight-knit community.
Local law enforcement continues their investigation into the motivation behind the attack. Sheriff Shea's team is working to gather additional evidence and witness statements.
Impact on Traverse City Community
The stabbing incident has left a lasting impact on the normally peaceful Michigan tourist destination. Local authorities are working to ensure public safety while the community processes this traumatic event.
The quick response from Perry and other citizens has been credited with preventing further casualties. Their actions demonstrate the potential impact of prepared citizens during crisis situations.
This incident adds to ongoing discussions about public safety and the role of armed citizens in emergency situations. The case continues to develop as investigators work to understand the full scope of the attack and its implications for the community.
