TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — At least 11 people were stabbed at a Walmart in Traverse City, and a suspect was in custody, authorities said Saturday.
Munson Healthcare announced on social media that 11 individuals were receiving care at the largest hospital in northern Michigan, and spokesperson Megan Brown confirmed that everyone had sustained stab wounds.
She did not immediately have information on their conditions. Munson Healthcare said it would provide updates “as appropriate.”
The Michigan State Police reported that the local sheriff’s office was conducting an investigation into the situation, noting that information was limited. The agency requested that people steer clear of the area while the investigation continues.
A fire truck, multiple police vehicles and uniformed first responders were seen outside the Walmart following the incident.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said her office was in contact with police about the “horrible news.”
“Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence,” Whitmer said.
A Walmart corporate spokesperson, Joe Pennington, said by email that the company was “working with police and defer questions to them right now.”
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said in a social media post that bureau officials were responding to “provide any necessary support.”
Traverse City, a favored vacation destination along Lake Michigan’s coast, is renowned for its cherry festival, wineries, and lighthouses. It is located approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) east of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
