Michigan man arrested for allegedly pulling a knife on Meijer employee over mask request

handcuffs

Handcuffs displayed by investigators during a news conference. Jake May | MLive.com Jake MayJake May

ACME TOWNSHIP, MI -- A Kalkaska man wanted in connection with an alleged assault at the Meijer in Acme Township Sunday has been arrested. The incident took place around 2 p.m. according to a now deleted Facebook post from the Grand Traverse Sheriff’s Office.

According to Up North Live, police arrested the man after initially asking for the public’s help in identifying him. The man is accused of pulling a knife on an employee of the store after repeatedly being asked to wear a mask inside. He refused before allegedly brandishing the knife.

The name of the 39-year-old suspect is not being released as he has yet to be formally arraigned on charges. However, Up North Live reports he is facing a felonious assault charge.

The incident came just one day before Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s latest executive order goes into effect which requires people to wear a mask indoors in public spaces. Businesses that refuse to enforce the order are subject to having their licenses revoked and fines. Individuals that refuse to comply with wearing a mask indoors or won’t wear a mask outdoors when unable to maintain six feet of social distancing from others are subject to fines.

There are however several exceptions to the order.

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus.

Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible.

Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued an executive order requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while inside enclosed, public spaces.

Read all of MLive’s coverage on the coronavirus at mlive.com/coronavirus.

Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

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