A Greensboro Police Department officer in North Carolina was tragically killed in the line of duty on Monday. Officer Michael Horan was responding to a call about an armed individual at a local Food Lion supermarket when he was fatally shot, according to law enforcement officials. The incident occurred around 11 a.m., as stated by Assistant Chief MJ Harris during a press briefing.
The suspect, who fled the scene, was later apprehended following a high-speed chase. The identity of the alleged shooter and the charges he will face have not been released, as the investigation is still ongoing.
Ramona Miller, a shopper at the Food Lion, provided a chilling account of the incident. She was shopping with her six-year-old granddaughter when she heard gunshots. Initially, she was unsure of what was happening until a store employee alerted everyone about the shooting.
Details about the shooting, including whether Officer Horan had a chance to return fire, were not immediately available. Assistant Chief Harris confirmed that Horan had responded to a report of a man armed with a firearm at the supermarket before the shooting took place.
Officer Horan had a distinguished career in law enforcement and military service. He had served with the Greensboro Police Department for seven years and had an 18-year tenure with the United States Coast Guard. At the time of his death, he was also an Army reservist. Harris lauded Horan’s service, describing him as an exceptional officer with an excellent reputation within the department and the community.
The state’s Bureau of Investigation will spearhead the inquiry into the shooting. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences over the officer’s death, acknowledging Horan’s bravery and dedication to his duty. He extended his sympathy to Horan’s family and friends, expressing gratitude for his service.