A former police officer faces charges of murder following a fatal shooting outside a Chick-fil-A in Summerville, South Carolina, involving a man from Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Allegations Against Anthony DeLustro

Anthony DeLustro, 64, a former Summerville Police Officer, stands accused of murder in the death of 39-year-old Michael O’Neal. The incident occurred while DeLustro was off-duty, sparking an altercation that resulted in O’Neal’s tragic death.

Family Statements

In response to DeLustro’s arrest, the O’Neal family issued a statement expressing gratitude for community support during this difficult time. They expressed hope for justice and acknowledged the efforts of the involved departments.

Summerville Police Department’s Response

The Summerville Police Department conveyed condolences to the affected families and deferred inquiries to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), which took over the investigation for impartiality.

Details from SLED Affidavit

According to an affidavit released by SLED, the altercation unfolded on March 20, with witnesses recounting a verbal exchange escalating into physical violence between DeLustro and O’Neal. During the altercation, DeLustro allegedly brandished his firearm, leading to fatal consequences.

Reckless Actions

SLED’s report highlights DeLustro’s actions as reckless, emphasizing the danger he exposed himself to by entering O’Neal’s vehicle armed with a handgun.

Community Support

In the wake of O’Neal’s tragic death, his family members are managing a GoFundMe campaign to support his parents, emphasizing their respect for law enforcement while seeking justice through the ongoing investigation.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice

The incident underscores the gravity of alleged misconduct by law enforcement personnel and the pursuit of justice for victims and their families. As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits further developments in pursuit of closure and accountability.

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Sources: WGHP, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, Summerville Police Department

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