University of Alabama police officer's family leans on law enforcement community after his death
Dozens of people gathered on the University of Alabama campus Thursday night to honor University of Alabama Police Investigator Justin Beal, who died late Wednesday after a battle with cancer.
What was originally planned as a prayer vigil for Beal became a candlelight vigil in his memory as family, friends, co-workers and community members came together to grieve and celebrate his life.
His wife, Christina Beal, described the last day of his life as the hardest 24 hours she’s ever endured. She said her husband had been in hospice care and that his condition declined rapidly after a long fight with cancer — a journey that started in 2017.
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Christina said doctors had once told the family they may have two years, but his health worsened quickly. Later, she said, they were told he had only months — and then only days.
Even in those final moments, she believes Justin stayed alive to keep his promise to his loved ones — sharing one last memory with his family. She said their daughter wanted to light a sparkler firework in his favorite color green in his honor.
The vigil included natural moments of silence and reflection as well as remarks from those who knew him best, including funny memories of the investigator.
Speakers described Beal as dedicated, caring and deeply admired.
University of Alabama Police Chief Scott Thurmond said the turnout was a comfort during an incredibly difficult time for the department, the university and Beal’s family, but that grief is still difficult to process.
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“How do we all move forward?” he asked. “That's a difficult thing for us because we still have to come to work. We've done mental process, got to serve our communities. We're grieving. You still have to continue on. We know Justin is in a better place. We know that he's not hurting, and that gives me some peace. I feel like it gives our office peace as well.”
For Christina Beal, the support has been overwhelming. As the community mourns, she said she is leaning on the law enforcement family surrounding her and the many people showing up to make sure her family is not grieving alone. She said a GoFundMe created for the family far exceeded what she expected. She said she thought it might raise $1,000. Instead, it has brought in about $53,000 so far.