Winston-Salem, N.C. (AP) – A former police officer is facing murder charges in connection with the shooting death of a man from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, outside a Chick-fil-A in Summerville, South Carolina. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division identified the suspect as Anthony DeLustro, a former Summerville Police Officer at the age of 64, who allegedly shot and killed 39-year-old Michael O’Neal.
DeLustro, accused of murder in O’Neal’s death, was off-duty during the incident according to SLED. The altercation between DeLustro and O’Neal transpired at a Chick-fil-A in Summerville, resulting in O’Neal’s tragic death. The family of the victim expressed their appreciation for the community’s support and respect for their privacy during this challenging time.
The Summerville Police Department, in a statement released on Wednesday, expressed condolences to both families affected by the tragedy. Chief Doug Wright requested the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) to lead the investigation, emphasizing transparency and impartiality.
According to reports from SLED, the altercation between DeLustro and O’Neal unfolded on March 20, while DeLustro was off-duty but working for the Summerville Police Department. Witnesses described an altercation that escalated, leading to DeLustro allegedly brandishing his law enforcement credentials before gunfire erupted.
During the altercation, O’Neal expressed the desire to leave, but a struggle ensued as DeLustro’s wife attempted to intervene. Subsequently, DeLustro allegedly fired his handgun, fatally striking O’Neal as he attempted to drive away. Investigators determined that O’Neal did not pose an imminent threat, prompting the murder charges against DeLustro.
Family members of O’Neal are seeking justice through a GoFundMe campaign, managed by his cousin and sister-in-law. As investigations continue, the family remains hopeful for a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding O’Neal’s tragic death.