TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – The suspect accused of stabbing 11 people in a random attack at a Walmart in Traverse City was arraigned on Monday.
The stabbing happened on July 26 at around 5 p.m. The motive is still unclear, according to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office.
Eleven people were injured and taken to Munson Medical Center. All are expected to survive, according to medical officials.
Bradford James Gille, 42, was charged with one count of terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder.
Previous coverage --> Traverse City Walmart stabbing latest: Suspect charged with terrorism, victims recovering
Gille appeared virtually for his arraignment and told the judge, “I don’t want to talk to you,” when she asked how to pronounce his last name.
After spending some time with an attorney in a virtual breakout room off the record, Gille returned and entered a not guilty plea.
When asked to give his address, he was frustrated that he had to repeat what he had told the attorney in the breakout room. He began to speak about a video he had seen on the internet, but the defense attorney cut him off and told him it could be used against him.
The judge asked if he had any money (to determine if he could hire his own attorney), and he replied, “Not to give you.”
An attorney is going to be appointed for him.
Bond is set at $100,000, cash/surety. He can’t use alcohol, marijuana, or illegal substances.
Related --> Hospital updates conditions of victims in Traverse City Walmart stabbing
What we know about the suspect
According to the sheriff, Gille, from Afton, has had prior assault allegations and controlled substance violations.
The weapon he allegedly used in the attack was a folding knife with a 3.5-inch cutting blade.
Gille was in the store from 4:10 p.m. until the stabbing happened.
A motive for the attack has not yet been determined. When he was arrested, the sheriff said there was minimal conversation from Gille.
The prosecutor’s office will be authorizing the charges on Monday. Gille is expected to be arraigned on Monday or Tuesday.
It’s not exactly clear as to why Gille was in the area. The sheriff said he may have resided in Grand Traverse County at one point.
What to know about the victims
The victims were taken to Munson Medical Center for treatment. The hospital has been providing updates on the victims’ conditions as the investigation continues.
As of July 28 at 10:15 a.m., one patient remains in serious condition, five are listed in fair condition, two are in good condition, two were treated and transferred, and one has been treated and released.
“We are deeply grateful to the dedicated team of physicians, nurses, surgeons, clinical staff, and support personnel at Munson Healthcare,” said the hospital in a statement. “Their unwavering commitment to the care and recovery of those affected reflects the strength and unity of our healthcare community during this difficult time.”
The Grand Traverse County Sheriff said the victims are the following:
- 70-year-old man
- 84-year-old woman
- 82-year-old man
- 29-year-old woman
- 80-year-old woman
- 67-year-old woman
- 38-year-old man
- 39-year-old man
- 65-year-old woman
- 40-year-old man
- 55-year-old man