In this week’s Good Guy with a Gun, we highlight a rare kind of defensive encounter — one where the presence of a gun stopped a violent threat without a single round being fired.
The Incident: Chaos at a Michigan Walmart
On a quiet Saturday afternoon in Traverse City, Michigan, shoppers at a local Walmart were thrown into chaos when a man began stabbing multiple people inside the store. Screams rang out as customers scrambled for safety. Among them was former Marine Derek Perry, who was checking out when the attack began.
As the suspect — 42-year-old Bradford James Gilly — fled to the parking lot still armed with a knife, Perry sprang into action.
The Response: Calm, Controlled, and Courageous
Perry, who legally open-carries in the state of Michigan, grabbed his firearm and moved toward the suspect. He was joined by several unarmed bystanders who also stepped in to help surround the man.
But rather than escalating the situation or responding with force, Perry did something remarkable: he used his presence and voice — not his weapon — to de-escalate the threat.
“I didn’t think of anything other than trying to get him away from people and get him isolated... I just wanted everyone to be safe.”
Perry reported that the attacker appeared disoriented and mentally unstable, saying, “They told me to do it. Call 911.”
Throughout the standoff, Perry never once aimed or fired his weapon. Instead, he held his ground, spoke to the suspect calmly, and kept everyone around him safe until police arrived.
The Aftermath: Charges Filed, Lives Saved
The suspect, Gilly, has since been charged with terrorism and 11 counts of assault with intent to murder. At his arraignment, he pleaded not guilty and told officers he didn’t want to participate in the hearing.
Police have credited both Perry and the other civilians who helped isolate the attacker with preventing further injuries or deaths.
Lessons from This Encounter
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Presence of a Gun Can Stop Violence — Without Pulling the Trigger
This incident is a powerful example of how the visible presence of a responsibly carried firearm can bring an end to a deadly situation. -
De-escalation Is the Goal
Perry showed tremendous restraint. Rather than rushing to act as “judge and jury,” he focused on preserving life — including the attacker’s — while maintaining control. -
Every Second Counts
Armed or not, quick thinking and courage from bystanders prevented a tragedy from becoming worse. The armed citizen simply had the most effective tool to maintain safety and keep others at a distance.
Final Thoughts
When people talk about responsible gun ownership, this is what they mean. Derek Perry didn’t act out of fear or vengeance — he acted with calm resolve, training, and a clear commitment to protecting those around him. And in doing so, he likely saved lives without ever pulling the trigger.
Stay Ready, Stay Responsible
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