GREENSBORO, N.C. — A man from North Carolina has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of a police officer who was responding to a call about a man armed with a gun in a grocery store. Authorities made this announcement on Tuesday.
Tarell Isaac McMillian, 34, has been charged with first-degree murder following the fatal incident involving Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan at a Food Lion store on Monday. According to Greensboro Police, McMillian is currently being held without the possibility of bail.
In addition to the murder charge, McMillian is facing other charges relating to a vehicle pursuit that resulted in his arrest in Duplin County, situated approximately 150 miles southeast of Greensboro. As of now, online court records do not indicate that McMillian has secured legal representation. Police have stated they do not have any other suspects connected to the case.
Officer Horan was shot shortly before noon as he responded to the situation at the Food Lion in Greensboro. The investigation surrounding the shooting remains ongoing, with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation—the primary state law enforcement agency—taking the lead in inquiries.
Horan joined the police force in 2017 and officially became a sworn officer in early 2018, according to Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris. Horan was part of the department’s patrol bureau and had served in the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000, as outlined on his LinkedIn profile.
Describing Horan, Harris emphasized that he was an exceptional officer with an exemplary reputation both within the department and in the local community, highlighting the respect he commanded.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences to Officer Horan’s family and colleagues via a social media platform. He characterized Horan’s actions as courageous, stating that the officer was “courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro” when he fell victim to what he called a senseless act of violence. Governor Cooper also conveyed gratitude for Horan’s dedicated service to the community.
The Food Lion supermarket will remain closed as authorities proceed with their investigation. The supermarket chain has confirmed it is offering support and resources for its employees impacted by the incident.
