A Greensboro police officer was fatally shot while responding to a call at a local Food Lion, leading to a high-speed chase and arrest of the suspect.
At a Glance
- Officer Michael Horan was killed responding to a call about an armed man at a Food Lion in Greensboro, NC.
- Suspect Tarell Isaac McMillian, 34, was arrested after a high-speed pursuit and charged with first-degree murder.
- Horan, a seven-year veteran of the Greensboro Police Department, also served in the Coast Guard and Army Reserves.
- The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is leading the ongoing investigation into the shooting.
- Governor Roy Cooper praised Officer Horan’s bravery and dedicated service.
Tragic Shooting Claims Officer’s Life
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Officer Michael Horan of the Greensboro Police Department was killed in the line of duty while responding to a call at a Food Lion grocery store. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. at the store located on Lawndale Drive in Greensboro, North Carolina. Officer Horan was responding to reports of a man with a firearm inside the store when the tragic shooting took place.
Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene as the shooting unfolded. Ramona Miller, who was inside the store at the time, recounted the terrifying moments. “We were on our way out and I was purchasing a lottery ticket and I was just sitting there and heard a ‘pop-pop’ and then ‘pop-pop-pop.’ I think I heard five shots,” Ramona Miller told WGHP.
I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. My prayers are with Officer Horan’s family, friends, and the entire Greensboro Police Department during this incredibly difficult time.
Our brave…
— Pat Harrigan (@PatHarriganNC) December 23, 2024
Suspect Apprehended After High-Speed Chase
Following the shooting, the suspect, identified as 34-year-old Tarell Isaac McMillian, fled the scene. A high-speed vehicle pursuit ensued, involving the North Carolina Highway Patrol. The chase concluded in Duplin County, where McMillian was apprehended and taken into custody. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be pending.
“Food Lion is deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at our store located at 4709 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro. As this is an active investigation, we are directing all questions to local law enforcement. Food Lion is cooperating with authorities and the store will remain closed while the police investigation continues. We are providing resources to support our associates during this difficult time,” Food Lion said in a statement.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation into the shooting. Authorities have stated that they are not seeking any other suspects in connection with the incident.
Remembering Officer Michael Horan
Officer Michael Horan was a dedicated public servant with a distinguished career. He joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2017 and became a sworn officer in early 2018. Prior to his service with the Greensboro PD, Horan had been a member of the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000 and had also served in the Army Reserves. His commitment to public safety and his community was evident throughout his career.
“He was an excellent officer,” Assistant Chief MJ Harris said. “He had an outstanding reputation inside the department and in the community.”
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences and praised Officer Horan’s service, stating that he was “courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro when he became the victim of a senseless act of violence.” The governor further commended Horan’s “brave, dedicated service” to the community.
In response to this tragedy, the Greensboro Police Department has established a memorial fund to support Officer Horan’s family. The loss of Officer Horan is deeply felt by his colleagues, the community he served, and all those who recognize the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in the line of duty.
