GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Greensboro community is mourning the tragic loss of Officer Michael Horan, who was shot and killed on December 23, 2024, during his response to reports of an armed suspect inside a Food Lion grocery store. Tarell Isaac McMillian, 34, is charged with first-degree murder following the incident, which has shocked both residents and law enforcement officials alike.
Officer Horan, who joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2017 and became sworn as an officer shortly thereafter, was known for his dedication to duty. Assistant Police Chief Milford J. Harris praised Horan's commitment, stating, \"He was excellent at what he did, and he will be deeply missed.\" Horan's background included honorable service with the U.S. Coast Guard since 2000, reflecting his long-standing commitment to public service.
The fateful day began just before noon when Horan responded to the Food Lion on Lawndale Drive. The call was about a man possessing a firearm within the store. Horan arrived first on the scene and made contact with McMillian, but the situation quickly escalated. A brief struggle ensued during which McMillian allegedly shot Horan. The officer did not have time to draw or fire his weapon, as confirmed by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
After the shooting, McMillian fled the scene, leading police on a chase more than 100 miles through multiple counties. His capture occurred later on the same day near the Duplin County line, thanks to the intervention of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, which successfully utilized a PIT maneuver to stop his vehicle.
Upon his arrest, McMillian was charged with first-degree murder, facing additional multiple charges due to the vehicle pursuit he led police on. He is being held without bond at the Guilford County Jail as the investigation continues. Authorities have clarified they are not seeking any other persons connected to this case.
Governor Roy Cooper addressed the loss via social media, expressing his condolences saying, \"Courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro when he became the victim of a senseless act of violence.\" His sentiments were echoed across the state, with local police departments also extending their sympathies, highlighting the inherent dangers law enforcement officers face.
To honor Officer Horan’s memory, the Greensboro Police Officers Association has established a memorial fund to assist his family, which has already raised tens of thousands of dollars to aid them during this difficult time. Community members are encouraged to contribute, showcasing the deep connection between residents and law enforcement.
A memorial for Horan is developing at the Greensboro Police Department, where colleagues and citizens alike have begun leaving flowers and notes to honor the fallen officer. Stories have emerged from locals reflecting on Horan’s kindness, noting how he positively impacted their lives.
The shooting incident not only addresses the tragic loss of the officer but is also described by police as the city’s 43rd homicide of 2024, raising renewed concerns about safety and crime rates within Greensboro.
The Food Lion where the shooting occurred has been closed as the investigation proceeds, with the company offering support to its employees affected by this tragic event and committing to assisting law enforcement as they unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community leaders, including Greensboro City Manager Trey Davis, have called for the community to keep Officer Horan’s family and colleagues in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Davis expressed, \"We’re heartbroken. I want to express my love and my support for the Greensboro police family.\" Such sentiments highlight the solidarity felt within the community, as they navigate through the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.
While investigations are still underway to examine the factors leading to the tragic confrontation, the focus now shifts to grieving the loss of Officer Horan and supporting his family. The community's response to this painful event reflects the shared values and respect for those who serve and protect.
