TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — A stabbing incident at a Walmart in Traverse City on Saturday left eleven people injured, with six in critical condition. Authorities described the attack as a random act of violence. A 42-year-old man was taken into custody shortly after the incident, which occurred around 4:45 p.m.

According to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, the suspect entered the store and used a folding knife to stab multiple victims. A sheriff's deputy arrived on the scene within minutes and apprehended the suspect. Bystanders also assisted in restraining the man and providing aid to the injured.

Sheriff Michael Shea addressed the media, stating, "Eleven is 11 too many, but thank God it wasn’t more." The ages of the victims have not been disclosed. Emergency responders quickly gathered in the parking lot of the shopping center, which includes several other retail stores, as the situation transitioned into an investigation.

Tiffany DeFell, a 36-year-old resident of Honor, about 25 miles from Traverse City, witnessed the chaos unfold from the parking lot. "It was really scary. Me and my sister were just freaking out. This is something you see out of the movies. It’s not what you expect to see where you’re living," she said.

Munson Healthcare reported that all eleven victims were being treated at the region's largest hospital. Spokesperson Megan Brown confirmed that six individuals were in critical condition, while five others were in serious condition late Saturday.

Sheriff Shea noted that the weapon used in the attack was a folding knife. He indicated that the suspect is believed to be a Michigan resident but did not provide further details. Michigan State Police confirmed earlier that the suspect was in custody.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her concern, stating, "Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence." Walmart released a statement emphasizing their commitment to cooperating with law enforcement during the investigation. "Violence like this is unacceptable. Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we’re thankful for the swift action of first responders," the statement read.

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino announced on social media that the bureau was responding to offer any necessary support. Traverse City is a well-known vacation destination on the shores of Lake Michigan, famous for its cherry festival, wineries, and lighthouses, located about 25 miles east of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.