Bravery at Walmart: Local Man Stops Stabbing Suspect at Gunpoint in Traverse City, Michigan
TRAVERSE CITY, MI – In a moment that will forever be etched into the hearts of the Traverse City community, a local man’s quick thinking and extraordinary courage helped bring a violent attack to an end—potentially saving numerous lives.
What began as a routine shopping trip on a summer afternoon quickly turned into a scene of terror inside the Walmart on US-31 in Traverse City. On that day, chaos erupted when a man armed with a knife began stabbing people in what police later described as an unprovoked, random act of violence. As customers fled for safety and panic spread across the store, one man stood his ground: Derrick Perry.
With his wife Katrina Derrick Perry at his side, Derrick did not hesitate. Trained in firearm safety and carrying legally, he quickly assessed the unfolding situation. As the suspect moved through the store, continuing the violent rampage, Derrick drew his firearm and confronted the attacker—ordering him to drop the weapon and get on the ground.
Eyewitnesses recall the intensity of the moment. “People were screaming and running. It felt like the world stopped when I saw Derrick step in,” said one shopper who was just aisles away during the incident. “He didn’t hesitate. He was calm, firm, and he took control.”
A Life-or-Death Decision
At a time when most would run for cover, Derrick’s sense of responsibility and bravery took over. Holding the suspect at gunpoint until law enforcement arrived, he ensured no further harm came to shoppers or employees. Authorities later confirmed that the suspect had injured multiple people but that the injuries could have been far worse had Derrick not intervened.
“This could have been a mass casualty event,” said Traverse City Police Chief Scott Warren. “There’s no doubt in our minds that Mr. Perry’s actions prevented further bloodshed. He showed immense bravery and restraint under pressure. He is, without a doubt, a hero.”
A Husband, a Hero
Katrina Derrick Perry, who stood nearby during the confrontation, also played a key role in keeping others calm and directing them to safety. In interviews following the incident, she spoke with quiet pride and emotion about her husband’s actions.
“He didn’t do it for recognition. He did it because it was the right thing to do,” she said. “He saw people in danger and knew he had the ability to help. That’s just the kind of man he is.”
Both Derrick and Katrina emphasized the importance of remaining calm and prepared in moments of crisis. While they hope no one else ever has to be in a situation like this, they urge citizens to be aware, trained, and ready to act in defense of others if necessary.
Community Response
In the hours following the incident, local residents flooded social media with messages of support and gratitude. “Derrick Perry saved lives today,” one post read. “A true protector of his community.” Another simply said, “We need more people like him.”
A GoFundMe was set up to assist the victims of the stabbing and recognize Derrick’s heroic actions. Local officials are also discussing a formal commendation for Derrick and Katrina in a future city council meeting.
Wider Conversations
This incident has also reignited discussions around self-defense, concealed carry laws, and the balance between public safety and individual responsibility. While gun-related violence is often at the center of national debate, stories like this one challenge stereotypes and remind the public of the complex, sometimes life-saving role that responsible gun ownership can play.
Community members and officials alike are using this moment to advocate for greater education on emergency response and preparedness.
The Aftermath
As the city begins to heal from the trauma of that day, many continue to reflect on what could have been a much darker chapter in Traverse City’s history. Thanks to one man’s willingness to step up in the face of danger, a senseless act of violence was halted before it became something far worse.
Derrick Perry has repeatedly said he doesn’t consider himself a hero, but rather someone who simply did what needed to be done. For those whose lives were spared, and for the community that watched his bravery unfold, he will forever be remembered differently.
In the face of fear, he chose to act. And in doing so, he became the protector Traverse City didn’t know it needed.
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