Memorial grows as slain officer remembered

FOREST ACRES, S.C. (WOLO) — Outside the Forest Acres Police Department a memorial for Officer Greg Alia continues to grow following his death Wednesday morning. The flag outside the department was lowered to half-staff. Alia was shot during an altercation at Richland Mall in Forest Acres around 8 a.m. Wednesday morning. At a noon news conference, Police Chief Gene Sealy, said the suspect 34-year-old Jarvis Hall was taken into custody. As Alia’s patrol car was returned to the police department, deputies with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and local firefighters took a moment to pray over the car. Forest Acres Mayor Frank Brunson released the following statement Wednesday afternoon: “Our Forest Acres Police Department puts themselves out on the line for us everyday; with no expectations of thanks, reward, or thoughts for their own safety. Today that risk was revealed as we mourn the tragic murder Officer Gregory Alia. The Town of Forest Acres is a close knit family and the entire community is heartbroken. We are coming together to support our police officers and the Alia family. We will continue to care for and support his newborn son, wife, and parents. We ask that everyone pray for and think about the Alia’s; as we honor Greg’s memory and follow his lead of service above self.” In addition to a GoFundMe page set up for Greg Alia’s family, people can visit any branch of First Citizens bank to make a donation.