Security officer dies in 400 foot fall off cliffs
Guam March 28 2019 Michael Rice was the first person to greet you when walking into Guam Home Center in Dededo, where he worked for five years. He was a friendly man, a religious man and a family man, according to GHC employee Josh Howard.
“That guy is a really, really friendly guy. Every customer that comes in he’s always greeting them … He never had a bad day cause he’s always smiling. Every time you ask him how he’s doing, it’s not just, ‘I’m doing good.’ It’s always ‘terrific’ or ‘fantastic,'” Howard said.
Rice was found dead Monday at the bottom of Two Lovers Point. The cliff has a nearly 400-foot drop. Authorities are awaiting an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
Howard said the news weighed heavily on the small team of employees at the home improvement store. They learned something was wrong when Rice’s wife came looking for him. News of his death came shortly after.
“Everybody knew him. I even had a few customers calling just to ask if the news was real,” he added. “My condolences to the family. I hope they’re doing OK.”
Rice worked as a security guard for the company.
Employee Letty Parayno said she heard from customers who attended the same church as Rice that the man attended service every Sunday. Rice was always helpful, she added.
GHC issued a statement on Rice’s death.
“We are shocked and heartbroken to learn of the tragic passing of our friend and colleague, Michael Rice,” the release stated. “An employee for five years, Michael was a gentle soul, he will live on in the heart of everyone he touched with his kindness. We offer our deepest condolences to his family.”
Police classified Rice’s death as an “injured person” investigation.
