In Greensboro, North Carolina, a tragic shooting took place at a Food Lion supermarket on Monday, claiming the life of a dedicated police officer. Officer Michael Horan, who had served with the Greensboro Police Department since 2018, was responding to a call about a man with a gun inside the store when the incident unfolded. Authorities later confirmed that a suspect had been taken into custody.
The shooting happened just before noon, sending shockwaves through the local community. Ramona Miller, a shopper who was at the store with her 6-year-old granddaughter, shared her harrowing experience. “We were about to leave. I was buying a lottery ticket, and then I heard ‘pop-pop’ and then more shots—about five in total,” she said. Initially, she wasn’t sure what was happening until an employee shouted, “Shooting! Shooting!” Miller quickly grabbed her granddaughter, and they made their way out of the store safely as police arrived on the scene.
Thankfully, no other injuries in the store were reported. However, the tragedy has left many shaken as investigators work to piece together exactly what happened. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation is leading the case, but details about the suspect or the events leading up to the shooting have not yet been shared.
Michael Horan wasn’t just a police officer; he was also a long-serving member of the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000. Known for his commitment and strong reputation, Horan was a respected figure in both the police department and the community. “He was an outstanding officer, well-loved by everyone he worked with and served,” Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris said during a news conference.
Governor Roy Cooper also expressed his condolences, calling the shooting a “senseless act of violence” and praising Horan for his bravery and service. “He gave his life protecting the people of Greensboro,” Cooper said. A significant number of state law enforcement officers were sent to assist in the emergency response, as the area around the Food Lion store was swarmed with police soon after the incident.
The store remains closed as the investigation continues. In a statement, Food Lion assured support for its employees and pledged full cooperation with the authorities. Local leaders, including Democratic State Senator Michael Garrett, emphasized the need to improve safety measures for law enforcement. “Another family’s holiday season has been forever changed,” Garrett remarked, highlighting the somber reality of this loss during what should be a festive time.
This incident has left Greensboro mourning the loss of a hero while sparking renewed conversations about the risks faced by law enforcement officers every day. For Officer Horan’s family, friends, and colleagues, his sacrifice will never be forgotten.
