A North Carolina police officer was fatally shot on Monday while responding to a call about an armed individual in a local supermarket, according to law enforcement officials. Officer Michael Horan of the Greensboro Police Department was killed in the line of duty at a Food Lion store around 11 a.m., as reported by Assistant Chief MJ Harris in a press briefing.
The alleged shooter was apprehended after a high-speed pursuit following his escape from the crime scene, as per police reports. The identity of the suspect and the charges he will face are yet to be disclosed, as the investigation is still underway.
An eyewitness at the store, Ramona Miller, recounted the terrifying incident to a local Fox affiliate. She was shopping with her six-year-old granddaughter when she heard the sound of gunfire. Initially, she was unsure of what was happening until a store employee shouted about a shooting.
The specifics of the shooting, including whether Officer Horan had the opportunity to return fire, were not immediately available. Assistant Chief Harris stated that Horan had responded to a report of a man armed with a firearm at the Food Lion before the shooting occurred.
Officer Horan 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 praised Horan’s service, describing him as an excellent officer with an outstanding reputation within the department and the community.
The state’s Bureau of Investigation will lead the inquiry into the shooting. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences over the officer’s death, acknowledging the officer’s bravery and dedication to his duty. He extended his sympathy to Horan’s family and friends, expressing gratitude for his service.