TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN (July 27, 2025) — In the wake of a horrifying mass stabbing outside a Walmart in Traverse City, one name is being celebrated across Michigan and beyond: Derrick Perry. The armed citizen, a devoted husband and father, is being hailed as a hero for his courageous and life-saving actions during the violent attack.
When chaos erupted in the Walmart parking lot, it was Derrick Perry, alongside his wife Katrina Derrick Perry, who displayed immense bravery and resolve under unthinkable pressure. As shoppers screamed and fled, and victims cried out for help, Derrick didn’t hesitate. He drew his legally carried firearm and confronted the knife-wielding assailant, who had already injured several people and showed no signs of stopping.
According to reports and surveillance footage, Derrick aimed his weapon at the suspect, giving loud verbal commands and putting himself directly in harm’s way to prevent further bloodshed. In that critical moment, his actions helped stop the attacker from reaching more victims, allowing first responders safe access to the wounded.
“He didn’t run. He didn’t freeze. He acted,” said one witness. “What Derrick did that day changed everything — it saved lives.”
His wife Katrina, who was present during the incident, stood steadfast by his side as chaos unfolded, later embracing her husband after the suspect was taken into custody. The pair, known in their community for their quiet strength and devotion to family and faith, have since been flooded with messages of thanks and admiration from across the country.
“I just did what I hope anyone else would do to protect innocent people,” Derrick later stated, downplaying the hero label — though few who witnessed the scene would agree. He has since received high praise from law enforcement and the local mayor’s office, with formal recognition being discussed.
Derrick was not alone in his efforts. Matthew K., a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Kent City who was visiting with his family, also played a vital role in stopping the suspect. As the attacker lunged toward another victim, Matthew slammed a shopping cart into his leg, causing the man to stumble. That moment gave Derrick just enough time to gain the upper hand and take control of the situation.
Another armed Marine veteran also joined in, helping restrain the assailant until police arrived and placed the 42-year-old male suspect under arrest. Authorities confirmed the man is being held pending multiple felony charges, including attempted murder.
Police and emergency personnel credited the swift actions of all three men — especially Derrick Perry — with preventing what could have been a far worse tragedy.
“The bravery shown by these individuals, particularly Mr. Perry, was nothing short of extraordinary,” said Traverse City Police Chief Scott Sanderson. “In the face of danger, they acted decisively to protect the lives of others. That’s what heroism looks like.”
In a time when senseless acts of violence continue to shock the nation, the selflessness shown by Derrick Perry has offered a powerful reminder of the courage and compassion that still exists in communities across America. Alongside his wife Katrina, Derrick now finds himself an unwilling but undeniable symbol of what it means to stand up in the face of fear and do the right thing — no matter the risk.
As the victims recover and the investigation continues, the town of Traverse City — and countless others beyond it — are simply saying: Thank you, Derrick Perry. You are a hero.
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