GREENSBORO, N.C. — A devastating incident unfolded just days before Christmas at the Food Lion grocery store on Lawndale Drive, where Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan was shot and killed. Responding to reports of an armed man inside the store, Horan arrived around 11:00 AM only to encounter the suspect identified as 34-year-old Tarell Isaac McMillian, who allegedly shot the officer during a brief struggle.
Officer Horan, 44, was dedicated to serving his community through the Greensboro Police Department since he became a sworn officer in 2018. According to Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris, "He was an excellent officer. He had an outstanding reputation inside the department and the community." Horan was also recognized for his bravery, having previously saved two individuals from drowning, earning him the Greensboro Police Department's Medical Life Saving Award.
Following the shooting, McMillian fled the scene but was apprehended hours later after leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through multiple counties, ending approximately 150 miles southeast of Greensboro. After the pursuit concluded, he was taken without incident and is currently held at the Guilford County Jail without bond, facing first-degree murder charges.
Describing the tragic day, Assistant Police Chief MJ Harris stated, "The circumstances of what led to the shooting are currently being investigated." Horan did not have time to draw or fire his weapon during the encounter. Meanwhile, the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation continues to lead the investigation, examining the events leading to the fatal incident.
Local officials and residents have expressed their shock and heartbreak over Horan's untimely death. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper extended his condolences via social media, stating, "The officer was courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro when he became the victim of a senseless act of violence." He recognized Horan's "brave, dedicated service" as immensely valuable to the community.
Food Lion also issued statements expressing sadness over the tragic shooting, noting, "Food Lion is deeply saddened by the incident... We express our deepest condolences to the officer’s family and friends." They confirmed the store would remain closed as investigations continued and promised to provide resources to support affected employees.
Memorials for Officer Horan are already taking shape within the community, including at the Greensboro Police Department, where tributes to his memory are on display for colleagues and citizens to pay their respects. A fundraiser has been organized to assist Horan’s family during this difficult time, showcasing the community’s strength and solidarity after losing one of its protectors.
While authorities have confirmed they are not currently seeking any other suspects, residents remain on edge. Witnesses at the Food Lion recall the chaos of the moment shots rang out. One shopper, Ramona Miller, recounted the fear she felt as employees shouted for customers to evacuate after hearing gunfire. "It was pretty busy...then I heard more than one gunshot," she stated, underlining the shock of experiencing such violence during routine shopping.
This incident marks the second shooting incident involving police officers within the last year in Greensboro. The community is coming to terms with the loss of its officers and reflecting on the dangers law enforcement face daily.
The investigation continues, and as the community grieves, it rallies around Horan’s family, ensuring they aren't alone during this heart-wrenching time of bereavement.
