WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — South Carolina Law Enforcement Division agents (SLED ) said an off-duty South Carolina police officer shot and killed a man from Pfafftown, NC.
It happened Wednesday, March 20, in the parking lot of a Chick-fil-A in Summerville, SC. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) said 39-year-old Michael O'Neal got into an altercation with an off-duty police officer, and the off-duty officer shot O'Neal. O'Neal died at the scene. The Berkeley County Coroner's Office said O'Neal was shot once. The off-duty officer went to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Summerville PD identified the off-duty officer as Patrolman First Class Anthony DeLustro - a veteran in law enforcement who began his career with the New York City Police Department in 1980. DeLustro worked for Summerville PD from 2007-2009 and then rejoined the department in January 2023.
Investigators have yet to say what led up to the altercation. Meanwhile, O'Neal's family is hoping for answers.
On Monday, the family shared the following statement with WFMY News 2:
"We are humbled by the overwhelming amount of support from many friends and family, and the community of Winston-Salem and people of Summerville, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Michael was well-loved by so many. He had a huge infectious smile, a hug that could fix the worst of pains, and had the ability to tell any story in a manner that would make you laugh so hard your stomach would hurt. He was the guy that was there for everyone in their worst day. He would be the first to reach out to help someone who needed a hand. He had many friends from all walks of life and never judged anyone by anything (other) than their character. He loved animals and his nieces and nephews dearly. He enjoyed golf and many outdoor activities. He loved his nieces and nephews dearly, as well as animals, Tar Heels basketball and the Dallas Cowboys. Michael lived in Pfafftown most of his life and graduated from North Forsyth High School in 2003, where he played football and ran track. He played on many local youth basketball teams and little league. He has many lifelong friends. He was of a multigenerational blue-line family. As the son of a retired captain of WSPD, and grandson of former chief of Police of Burlington, who both served with the highest levels of integrity. We understand the importance of a thorough, formal investigation and will not give specific details of the case at this time. We are angered, hurt, and struggle with his untimely loss. We still have many more questions than answers. We pray there will be justice, but encourage everyone at this time to focus on the loss of this wonderful soul," O'Neal's family said.
Summerville PD Chief Douglas Wright released the following statement on the incident:
"On behalf of the Summerville Police Department, we offer our thoughts and prayers to the O’Neal family for the tragic loss of their loved one, Michael. Yesterday, I spoke with Michael’s parents and offered my sincere condolences.
Our police officer was treated and released after suffering non-life-threatening injuries. Our deepest prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time. This event was a struggle for all who were involved.
When the incident occurred, I immediately requested outside assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division [SLED] to lead the investigation of this incident, as they are an impartial and independent agency. I want to remind everyone that this procedure takes time. Please be patient and trust the process. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with SLED with further inquiries," Chief Wright said.
As for what's next, the South Carolina cornorer's office says they're awaiting the autopsy report.
SLED said as of Monday night, no charges have been filed against DeLustro.