A Greensboro, North Carolina police officer, Michael T. Horan, was shot and killed on Monday morning while responding to a report of a man with a gun inside a Food Lion supermarket. The suspect was arrested, but the details of the incident are still being investigated.
Officer Horan, 43, had been with the Greensboro Police Department since 2018. He was described as an excellent officer with a great reputation both within the department and in the community. He was also a husband, father, son, and friend, and his loss has deeply affected his family, colleagues, and the community.
A witness, Ramona Miller, was shopping with her granddaughter when the shooting happened. She heard several gunshots and then saw police arrive. She and her granddaughter quickly left the store.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is handling the investigation. Details about the suspect and the events before the shooting have not been released. A strong police presence was seen outside the supermarket after the incident.
Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences to Officer Horan’s family and colleagues, calling the shooting a senseless act of violence. He also sent extra state law enforcement officers to assist in Greensboro.
Officer Horan had served in the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000, where he worked as a law enforcement officer and a search-and-rescue operator. In 2019, he was awarded for rescuing a man and his son from a rip current while off duty.
State Senator Michael Garrett called the shooting a tragic reminder of the dangers police officers face while on duty, especially during the holiday season.
The Food Lion store is closed while the investigation continues. The company is working with law enforcement and providing support for affected employees. A memorial for Officer Horan has been set up at the Greensboro Police Headquarters, and a fundraiser is being organized to help his family.
Officer Horan leaves behind his wife and children, and the community is grieving his loss. The investigation is still ongoing.