Dec 23, 2024
GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) -- The Piedmont Triad is mourning the loss of a Greensboro officer who was killed in a shooting at a Food Lion on Monday afternoon. At 10:45 a.m., Greensboro police say they got a report about a possible person with a handgun inside the Food Lion on the 4700 block of Lawndale Drive. At about 11 a.m., shots were fired in the store, killing Horan. Live Updates: Greensboro police officer killed in shooting at Food Lion on Lawndale Drive Police have a suspect in custody but have not released any identifying information at this time. Greensboro City Councilmember Zack Matheny was the first to confirm to FOX8 that there was a shooting. Police say the shooting took place inside the Food Lion. Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan released the following statement on social media on Monday afternoon. My thoughts are with the family, friends, and loved ones of Officer Michael Horan during this incredibly difficult and painful time. We are committed to offering all the support, resources, and assistance they need in the coming days. My sympathy extends to all of our first responders — Greensboro Police, Greensboro Fire, and Guilford Metro 911 — as they mourn the loss of a colleague and a friend. This tragedy affects not only those who knew Officer Horan personally, but our entire City. We have lost someone who served with distinction, and his dedication to keeping our community safe is a loss that resonates with all of us. The Greensboro Police Department will continue to provide updates as appropriate, and we ask that you respect the privacy of Officer Horan's family and our officers during this time of mourning. This is an incredibly difficult time for our department. However, we are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. We will stand strong together as we honor Officer Horan's legacy. GPD continues to serve with the same dedication he demonstrated every day. The Winston-Salem Police Department released the following statement on Monday afternoon: Our deepest condolences go out to the family, both blood and blue, of the Greensboro Police Department as they mourn the loss of Officer Horan - a loving father and husband. The loss of a fellow officer is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice made in the line of duty. Once an officer takes the oath, the commitment to protect and serve never ends, on or off duty. Rest easy, Officer. We’ve got the watch from here. High Point Police Chief Curtis Cheeks released the following statement on social media: On behalf of the High Point Police Department, I extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones and colleagues of Officer Horan of the Greensboro Police Department, who courageously gave his life in the line of duty today. This tragedy is yet another solemn reminder of the sacrifice men and women in law enforcement make each day when they wear the uniform and badge, not knowing if they'll come home to their families at the end of their shift. Officer Horan's ultimate sacrifice in service of his community will never be forgotten by the men and women of the High Point Police Department. The Thomasville Police Department also released a statement: Our hearts and prayers are with the Greensboro Police Department following the tragic loss of Officer Michael Horan. A dedicated law enforcement officer, husband, and father, Officer Horan’s sacrifice will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. This senseless act serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers our officers face every day while protecting and serving our communities. We stand united in support of Officer Horan’s memory. The Randleman Police Department said, "Please keep Greensboro Police Department and their families in prayer." Likewise, the Randolph County Sheriff's Office commented on a GPD press conference announcing Horan's death, by saying, "Sending our sincere condolences and sympathy to the Greensboro Police Department law enforcement family and the officer's family. Thank you to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol for your actions and swift apprehension of the suspect." The Graham Police Department also offered its condolences on social media with the following statement: It is with heavy hearts that we extend our deepest condolences to the Greensboro Police Department and the family of the officer who was shot and killed in the line of duty earlier today. This devastating loss is felt not only within Greensboro but across the entire law enforcement family and our community. As we approach Christmas, a time meant for togetherness and celebration, we are reminded of the profound sacrifices made by those who serve and protect. This tragedy is a solemn reminder of the dangers faced daily by police officers and the courage it takes to answer the call. To the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. We stand with you in grief and in solidarity. Rest in peace, hero. Your service will never be forgotten. Watch: Witness recounts officer-involved shooting in Greensboro Food Lion In a statement on social media, Gov. Roy Cooper said, "I have spoken with Greensboro Police Chief Thompson to give him my deepest condolences on the tragic shooting death of Officer Michal Horan. The officer was courageously doing his duty protecting Greensboro when he became the victim of a senseless act of violence. I extend to his family and friends my sympathy and a grateful heart for his brave, dedicated service." North Carolina Governor-elect Josh Stein also released a statement on social media: I'm heartbroken for the family and fellow officers of Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan. I've been in touch with Greensboro Police Chief Thompson to express my condolences and offer any support his team needs. Officer Horan died while responding to a call today. Law enforcement officers run into danger to protect us. We must let them know how grateful we are and do more to support them. A Food Lion spokesperson said in a statement: Food Lion is deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at our store located at 4709 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro. As this is an active investigation, we are directing all questions to local law enforcement. Food Lion is cooperating with authorities and the store will remain closed while the police investigation continues. We are providing resources to support our associates during this difficult time. Law enforcement agencies outside of the Piedmont Triad have also released messages of support for the GPD. The North Carolina Fraternal Order of Police released the following statement on social media on Monday afternoon: Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the tragic loss of Officer Michael Horan, a police officer in Greensboro. This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face every day while protecting our communities. We extend our deepest prayers and condolences to the officer’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time. As we reflect on this tragedy, let us also recognize the bravery and dedication of all officers who put their lives on the line to serve and safeguard us. We must continue to support them in their vital work, advocating for their safety and the resources they need to carry out their duties effectively. Together, we can honor their sacrifices and strive for a future where our communities are safe for all. "The Raleigh Police Department offers our deepest thoughts and prayers to the family of fallen Officer Horan, the members of the Greensboro Police Department, and the Greensboro community. RPD stands with our brothers and sisters in blue as they navigate the challenging days and weeks ahead," the RPD said in a statement released on social media on Monday afternoon. The Hillsborough Police Department also shared its condolences. "Our hearts go out to Greensboro Police Department following the loss of Officer Horan. We send our deepest condolences to you all. We are truly sorry for your loss," a statement released by the HPD reads. "Our prayers go out to the family and colleagues of Greensboro Police Officer Michael Horan who was shot and killed when he responded to a call this morning. The most tragic of scenarios in this holiday season," the Pitt County Sheriff's Office said in a statement released on social media on Monday afternoon. About Officer Horan Greensboro Officer Michael HoranGreensboro Police Department highlights Officer Michael Horan on Coast Guard Day (GPD)Greensboro Police Department highlights Officer Michael Horan on Coast Guard Day (GPD)Greensboro Police Department highlights Officer Michael Horan on Coast Guard Day (GPD)Greensboro Police Department highlights Officer Michael Horan on Coast Guard Day (GPD) Officer Michael Horan worked for Greensboro police for seven years, starting in September 2017. He also served 18 years in the U.S. Coast Guard and was an active reservist. According to GPD, while serving with the U.S. Coast Guard, Horan conducted New York City and Washington D.C. harbor defense operations in the days following the Sept. 11 attacks. He was part of the first Coast Guard Counter-Terrorism unit in Seattle. He has been stationed in North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, St. Thomas US Virgin Islands, New York and New Jersey where he conducted counter-terror, counter-narcotics and counter human trafficking missions. Horan has also received a lifesaving award for rescuing a father and son from rip currents while on vacation with his family in Emerald Isle. “Michael was sitting on the beach while vacationing on Emerald Isle with his family when he heard a male voice shouting for help,” according to Beach Haven Beach Patrol, of which he was formerly a member. “Mike’s training took over and he immediately identified that not one but two victims were caught in the deadly vice of a rip current. Michael sprang into action immediately and swam to the victims ... Michael brought both victims back to shore completely ignoring the enormous danger to himself. The man and his 12-year-old son are [alive] today due to Mike’s truly heroic efforts. For his heroism, Michael received the Greensboro Police Department’s Medical Life Saving Award for 2018. Congratulations Mike, your daughter was lucky enough to see how courageous her father really is in action and should be as proud of you as we all are. Well done Mike!” During the Monday news conference, Greensboro Patrol Bureau Assistant Chief MJ Harris said, “He was a husband, a father, a son, a friend and much more to his family. …. He was an excellent officer. He had an outstanding reputation inside the department and in the community.” Greensboro City Manager and former Greensboro Office Trey Davis said, “In a word, we’re heartbroken.” A Help A Hero fundraiser has been set up in Horan’s memory.
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