In an unfortunate turn of events, State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell has expressed deep condolences after the tragic loss of Greensboro police officer Michael Horan, who was fatally shot during an altercation at a local grocery store. Officer Horan, a member of the Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System, responded to a call about a man with a gun at a Food Lion store when the incident occurred, as reported by the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer. Folwell has vowed to ensure that the officer's family will promptly receive all due benefits.
While extending support to the officer's bereaved family, Treasurer Folwell reflected on the officer's dedication, recalling, “Our hearts are heavy because of this senseless killing. We grieve over a cherished life with profound purpose as a husband, father, son and public servant that was cut short," as mentioned on the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer website. Michael Horan, who joined the Greensboro Police Department in 2017 after service in the Coast Guard and as a lifeguard and beach patrol instructor in New Jersey, tragically died almost a year after the killing of Greensboro Police Sgt. Philip Dale Nix on December 30, 2023. "We will do everything in our power to make sure benefits are paid as quickly as possible to this fallen hero’s survivors," Folwell stated, demonstrating the state's commitment to its first responders.
The suspect, Tarell McMillian, has been charged with first-degree murder among other charges, and may face severe penalties, potentially including the death penalty or life in prison without parole. According to the investigation by the Greensboro Police Department, Officer Horan was shot before he could draw his own weapon. In light of the tragedy, Treasurer Folwell has also indicated that he will request the North Carolina Industrial Commission to approve additional "line-of-duty" death benefits for Officer Horan.
The North Carolina Industrial Commission is authorized to grant a $100,000 death benefit to law enforcement officers who are killed in the line of duty. An additional $100,000 may be awarded if the officer is murdered while performing their duties. Upon decision by the NCIC, DST handles the payment in accordance with the commission's ruling, “No amount of money will fill the horrible void inflicted on this family,” said Treasurer Folwell on the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer website, recognizing that while financial support is critical, it cannot replace the loss suffered by Officer Horan's family. In 2023, RSD disbursed almost $119 million to beneficiaries or their estates to alleviate the economic strain on families of public safety workers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.
