Who Is Bradford James Gille? Traverse City Walmart Stabbing Suspect Profile

A terrifying stabbing incident happened at a Walmart store in Traverse City, Michigan. Eleven people were hurt when a man armed with a folding knife suddenly attacked shoppers near the checkout area.

Authorities quickly identified the suspect as 42-year-old Bradford James Gille. He lives in Afton, Michigan, which is about 90 miles from Traverse City. Gille was arrested at the scene after bystanders tackled him and stopped the attack.

What Happened During the Attack?

Bradford James Gille entered the Walmart around 4:10 p.m. Witnesses say that about 35 minutes later, around 4:45 p.m., he started stabbing people near the checkout counters. He used a folding knife with a 3.5-inch blade.

Eleven victims were stabbed. They included both men and women, ranging in age from 29 to 84 years old. Some victims were elderly, with ages of 70, 80, and 84. Six victims were reported in critical condition, and five were in severe condition. All were taken to Munson Medical Center for emergency care.

Charges Against Bradford James Gille

The suspect now faces serious charges. He has been charged with 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. Additionally, he faces one count of terrorism. The terrorism charge reflects the seriousness and scale of the attack.

Authorities say the attack appeared random. There is no evidence so far that Gille targeted any specific person. Police continue to investigate the motive behind this violent act.

Who Is Bradford James Gille?

Bradford James Gille is a white Christian man from Afton, Michigan. He is 42 years old. His past shows a long history of criminal problems and mental health issues.

Gille was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia 26 years ago. His record includes several arrests for violent crimes and other offenses, although police have not shared detailed information on his past arrests.

In addition to his troubled past, Gille has been involved in amateur mixed martial arts. In 2023, he self-published a book called The Book of I Jesus Christ, but little is known about its contents.

Community Response and Investigation

The Grand Traverse County Sheriff, Michael Shea, praised the actions of the Walmart shoppers who stopped Gille. Their quick response helped prevent even more injuries or deaths.

The community of Traverse City is still in shock after the violent attack. Many are asking why this happened and hoping for answers as police investigate further.

Officials say the victims were chosen randomly, making the attack more frightening for the public. The case remains open, and investigators are working to learn more about Gille’s motives and mental state.

Victims of the Attack

The victims injured in the stabbing include:

• A 70-year-old man

• An 84-year-old woman

• An 82-year-old man

• A 29-year-old woman

• An 80-year-old woman

• A 67-year-old woman

• A 38-year-old man

• A 39-year-old man

• A 65-year-old woman

• A 40-year-old man

• A 55-year-old man

All were seriously hurt and needed urgent hospital care.

Bradford James Gille, 42, is in custody following a mass stabbing at a Traverse City Walmart on July 26, 2025. He attacked 11 people with a folding knife, causing critical and severe injuries. The victims were random, and the motive remains unknown. Gille has a long history of criminal behavior and mental health struggles. Police continue their investigation as the community works to heal from this tragic event.