Who was Michael Horan, North Carolina Cop Shot Dead in the Line of Duty

While responding to a call regarding a suspicious individual, a North Carolina police officer was shot and killed inside a grocery store, according to authorities. Hours later, the suspect was arrested.

Greensboro police officer Michael Horan

A tragic shooting unfolded at a Food Lion supermarket on Lawndale Drive in Greensboro on Monday morning, leaving one police officer dead and a community in mourning.

Officer Michael Horan, a seven-year veteran of the Greensboro Police Department, was fatally shot while responding to a report of a suspicious and possibly armed individual. The incident has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from local and state officials, law enforcement, and residents.

Incident Overview

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) reported that just before 11 a.m., a call was made about an individual exhibiting suspicious behavior inside the supermarket. Officer Horan was the first to arrive at the scene. After making contact with the suspect, a struggle ensued. During this confrontation, the suspect reportedly drew a firearm and shot Horan.

Eyewitness Ramona Miller, who was at the store with her 6-year-old granddaughter, recounted hearing gunshots. “We were on our way out, and I was purchasing a lottery ticket. Suddenly, I heard a ‘pop-pop’ and then ‘pop-pop-pop.’ I think I heard five shots,” Miller told WGHP. Initially unsure of what had occurred, Miller recalled an employee shouting, "Shooting! Shooting!" to warn those nearby.

After the shooting, the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, prompting a high-speed chase that ended with their arrest. The individual’s identity has not been disclosed, and charges are pending as the investigation continues.

Officer Michael Horan’s Legacy

Assistant Chief MJ Harris, speaking at a press conference, confirmed that Horan succumbed to his injuries shortly after the incident. The 54-year-old officer leaves behind a wife and children. Before joining the Greensboro Police Department in 2018, Horan served with the United States Coast Guard for 18 years and was an Army reservist at the time of his death.

“He was an excellent officer,” Harris said. “He had an outstanding reputation within the department and the community.”

Chet Effler, president of the North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police, described the tragedy as a sobering reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily. “Today, we reflect on this father, son, and husband who went to work trying to make his community better,” Effler said.

In a statement, Governor Roy Cooper expressed his condolences, highlighting Horan’s bravery and dedication. “The officer was courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro when he became a victim of a senseless act of violence,” Cooper said. “I extend to his family and friends my sympathy and a grateful heart for his brave, dedicated service.”

Arrest of the Suspect

After the shooting, authorities tracked the suspect’s vehicle to Johnston County. Deputies from Johnston County Sheriff’s Office initiated a pursuit, with assistance from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office and North Carolina State Highway Patrol. The chase ended near the Duplin County line when officers performed a precision immobilization technique (PIT maneuver) to stop the suspect’s vehicle. The individual was taken into custody without further incident.

“The suspect is in custody, and there is no ongoing threat to the public,” Harris stated. Further details about the suspect, including charges, are pending the investigation led by the SBI.

Community and Corporate Response

The community and local organizations have rallied in support of Officer Horan’s family. The Greensboro Police Department has shared a link to the "Help a Hero" website to raise funds for his wife and children.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings released a heartfelt statement: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a courageous hero who devoted his life to protecting the Greensboro community. My heart goes out to the fallen officer, his family, and the entire Greensboro Police Department.”

Food Lion, where the tragic event occurred, also issued a statement expressing sorrow and pledging to support its employees during this difficult time. The store will remain closed for several days as investigations continue but is expected to reopen on Thursday.

A Somber Reminder

Officer Horan’s death has left an indelible mark on the Greensboro community and beyond. His service as a Coast Guard veteran, Army reservist, and police officer underscores a lifetime dedicated to protecting others. As the investigation into the shooting continues, the community is uniting to honor his memory and support his grieving family.

As the holiday season approaches, the loss of Officer Horan is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers. His dedication to duty and service will not be forgotten.