GREENSBORO, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) – Authorities say a North Carolina police officer was shot and killed inside a grocery store while responding to a call about a suspicious person. The suspect was taken into custody hours later.
The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation says that just before 11 a.m. Monday, a call was made about a suspicious and possibly armed person at a Food Lion supermarket in Greensboro, WBTV reports.
Officer Michael Horan was the first to arrive on scene and made contact with the individual in the store. The bureau says that after a brief struggle, the suspect pulled out a gun and fatally shot Horan before leaving the scene in a vehicle.
Investigators say Horan did not have time to draw or fire his weapon. He leaves behind a wife and children, according to the Greensboro Police Department.
“It’s just a real heavy feeling when you hear that loss, and I think today is a reminder that the dangers of law enforcement – every day – are really prevalent,” said Chet Effler, president of the North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police. “I hope that we go through this holiday season and we reflect and think about this father, this son, this husband who went to work today to try and make his community better.”
Horan joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2018, according to a statement from Police Chief MJ Harris. Before joining the police force, he spent almost two decades with the Coast Guard.
“He was an excellent officer. He had an outstanding reputation inside the Department and the community. We ask that you please keep his family, friends and fellow officers in your thoughts and prayers,” read the statement in part.
The department shared a link to the Help a Hero website, where a fundraiser has been set up to help Horan’s family.
Officials say the suspect was located driving a vehicle in Johnston County after 1 p.m.
Deputies with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office began a pursuit and were joined by deputies with Sampson County Sheriff’s Office when the suspect entered Sutton Town until the North Carolina State Highway Patrol took over and performed a PIT maneuver.
Officials say they were able to stop the vehicle on Interstate 40 at the Duplin County line, and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.
Charges are pending.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings released the following statement after the deadly shooting:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a courageous hero who devoted his life to protecting the Greensboro community. Earlier today, a Greensboro police officer was tragically killed in the line of duty—a hero simply doing his job. My heart goes out to the fallen officer, his family and the entire @GSO_Police. My thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s loved ones, friends and colleagues. May they find strength and solace during this incredibly difficult time.”
A spokesperson for Food Lion released the following statement:
Food Lion is deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred at our store located at 4709 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro. We express our deepest condolences to the officer’s family and friends.
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 says the store where the shooting happened is set to reopen Thursday.
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