Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office confirmed it was investigating “a multiple stabbing incident at the Wal-Mart in Traverse City”.
The suspect is a Michigan resident and used a “folding knife style weapon”, Sheriff Michael Shea told reporters. The incident appeared to be a “random act”, he added.
FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino said federal personnel were responding to provide any necessary support to local authorities.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she was “in touch with law enforcement about the horrible news”.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and the community reeling from this brutal act of violence,” she added.
Traverse City is about 255 miles (410 kilometres) northwest of Detroit.