In Greensboro, North Carolina, tragedy struck on Monday when a police officer lost his life while responding to a report of an armed individual inside a supermarket. The officer, identified as Michael Horan, was shot shortly before noon at a Food Lion store located in the central region of the state, according to local authorities.
Eyewitness Ramona Miller recounted her experience while shopping with her 6-year-old granddaughter. She described hearing gunshots while she was at the register purchasing a lottery ticket. “We were on our way out, and I heard a ‘pop-pop’ followed by ‘pop-pop-pop.’ I believe I counted five shots,” Miller explained. Initially unsure about the sounds, she soon realized the gravity of the situation when an employee shouted, “Shooting! Shooting!”
After the shots rang out, Miller and her granddaughter quickly exited the store. Police arrived on the scene shortly after the incident. Thankfully, there have been no reports of injuries among other shoppers or employees within the store. Authorities later confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the events leading to the shooting, although no additional information or details regarding the suspect in custody have been released at this time. The investigation is being led by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
Officer Horan joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2017 and became a sworn officer in early 2018. He was a member of the patrol bureau and had previously served in the U.S. Coast Guard since the year 2000. Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris praised Horan’s character, stating, “He was an excellent officer with an outstanding reputation both within the department and the community.”
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his sorrow on social media, sharing condolences with Horan’s family and colleagues. He characterized Horan’s death as a result of a “senseless act of violence” while he was honorably serving and protecting Greensboro. Cooper also acknowledged the officer’s “brave, dedicated service.” On the same day, he announced that he had dispatched a considerable number of state law enforcement officers to assist in the emergency response, noting the heightened police presence outside the grocery store shortly after the incident.
Food Lion has announced that the store will remain closed during the investigation, offering support to employees affected by the tragedy while directing all inquiries to local law enforcement. The company pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
This incident has reignited discussions among lawmakers regarding the need to bolster support and enhance safety measures for law enforcement officers. Democratic State Senator Michael Garrett, representing parts of Guilford County, emphasized the urgency for stronger measures to protect police officers. He remarked, “During what should be a time of joy and celebration, another brave officer has been shot in the line of duty. Another family’s holiday season will forever be altered.”
