A Greensboro police officer was fatally shot while responding to a call at a Food Lion supermarket, leaving a community in mourning and raising questions about the safety of law enforcement personnel.
At a Glance
- Officer Michael Horan was killed while responding to a call about an armed man at a Food Lion store
- Suspect Tarell Isaac McMillian, 34, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder
- Horan, a U.S. Coast Guard member, had served with the Greensboro Police Department since 2017
- The incident marks the 43rd homicide in Greensboro for 2024
- A memorial fund has been established to support Horan’s family
Tragic Incident at Greensboro Food Lion
On a fateful day in Greensboro, North Carolina, Officer Michael Horan of the Greensboro Police Department responded to a call about a possibly armed man at a local Food Lion supermarket. The routine call quickly turned tragic when Horan encountered 34-year-old Tarell Isaac McMillian. According to reports, a brief struggle ensued, during which Horan was shot before he could draw his weapon.
The incident has left the Greensboro community reeling, marking the 43rd homicide in the city for 2024. It also represents the second officer killed in Greensboro within the past 12 months, underscoring the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in the line of duty.
Greensboro, North Carolina Police Officer Michael Horan was killed in the line of duty Monday morning while responding to reports of an armed man inside a Food Lion grocery store. The suspect has been arrested. https://t.co/KzVnWgVVk5 pic.twitter.com/nKnJb8B4cv
— WCNC Charlotte (@wcnc) December 23, 2024
Swift Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Following the shooting, McMillian fled the scene, leading authorities on a vehicle pursuit that spanned 150 miles. The chase ended in Duplin County, where McMillian was apprehended and subsequently charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held without bond in Guilford County Jail.
“We are all struggling with the tragic loss of Officer Michael Horan, who was a valued and respected member of our Greensboro Police family,” Chief John Thompson said from police headquarters. “We’re especially grateful to everyone who worked around the clock to assist in the identification, arrest, and charging of the individual responsible for Officer Horan’s death. We also want to thank our community and our law enforcement partners around the state for the support they have offered our department and for Officer Horan’s family during this difficult time.”
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has taken the lead in the ongoing investigation, working to piece together the events that led to this tragic outcome. The Food Lion store remains closed as investigators continue their work, with the company providing support to its employees affected by the incident.
Remembering Officer Michael Horan
Officer Michael Horan joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2017, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a dedication to public service. Prior to his role in Greensboro, Horan had a long history with the Beach Haven Beach Patrol, serving from 1995 to 2017. He was also a member of the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000, exemplifying his commitment to protecting and serving others.
“He was an excellent officer. He had an outstanding reputation inside the department and in the community.” Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris said.
Horan’s bravery extended beyond his official duties. In 2019, while visiting Emerald Isle, North Carolina with his family, he courageously saved a man and his son from a dangerous rip current. This act of heroism further illustrates the character of a man dedicated to helping others, even when off-duty.
🔹Blessed Are The Peacemakers 🔹
Police Officer Michael Horan
Greensboro Police Department, North Carolina
EOW: Monday, December 23, 2024#EnoughlsEnough #OfficerDown #EOW #ThinBlueLine pic.twitter.com/XUphJ0ohpx— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) December 25, 2024
Community Response and Support
The loss of Officer Horan has deeply affected the Greensboro community and law enforcement agencies across the state. In response to this tragedy, the Greensboro Police Officers Association has established a memorial fund to support Horan’s family, which has already raised tens of thousands of dollars. A separate memorial page aims to raise $72,000 for the family, demonstrating the community’s desire to support those left behind.
“To put it simply, we’re heartbroken,” Greensboro City Manager Trey Davis said, echoing the sentiments of many in the community.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper also expressed his condolences, acknowledging Horan’s service and sacrifice. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a dedicated officer who gave his all to protect and serve, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and commitment that will not be forgotten.