Hundreds gathered on the anniversary of Kaia Grant’s death in honor of the fallen officer

CINCINNATI (FOX19) - Fellow officers and community members gathered Sunday, one year after Springdale police officer Kaia Grant was killed.

Grant was called to assist with a police chase when she was killed on I-275 by the driver, Terry Blankenship, 42, who was fleeing officers, police say.

Officers say Grant was putting out stop sticks when she was hit by Blankenship. She was rushed to the hospital but died a short time later.

“We remember exactly how we felt when 911 happened. And of course, everyone here tonight knows how it felt when we found out what happened to Kaia,” said Police Chief Thomas Wells.

Wells says they never want anybody to forget her sacrifice and the light she brought to this community.

Hundreds gathered at the Springdale Police Department for a memorial ceremony and unveiling of a plaque and time capsule in Grant’s honor.

“But what’s so important about what Kaia did and what all the people do when they put the uniform on do is they put service above themselves,” said Wells.

Chief Wells unveiled a locker that once belonged to Grant, already filled with many mementos. “Her trademarked tactical backpack, her lunch pale, her honor guard hat.”

A plaque with Grant’s name and picture, which will be placed inside the station’s lobby, was also unveiled.

Two powerful tributes Chief Wells hopes will respectfully honor the fallen hero and all she did for her community.

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