RPD, RCS partner to raise funds for families of fallen Sheffield officer, FC sheriff

Russellville City Schools and the Russellville Police Department are partnering to raise funds that will support the families of two local law enforcement officers.

The collection will support the family of fallen Sheffield Police Sgt. Nick Risner and the family of Franklin County Sheriff Shannon Oliver in the loss of his wife, Tange.

Risner was shot in the line of duty in Muscle Shoals Oct. 1, and he passed away because of his injuries Oct. 2.

Oliver’s wife passed away unexpectedly Oct. 2. The Olivers have three children: Johnna, Sterlyn and Brannon.

For students who want to donate, $1 – or more, if desired – will be collected at school through Friday. Donations from faculty and staff who wish to participate will be collected through Friday as well.

“We just wanted to support the families who have experienced such great unexpected loss,” explained RCS Superintendent Heath Grimes. “We also stress relationships in our schools and character. We want students to learn to give, to support, to lend a hand and to be a good neighbor. We also wanted to show our support to law enforcement, who have been such a good neighbor to us.”

Russellville PD will be accepting donations from officers as well as the community. Anyone wishing to participate can drop donations off at the Russellville Police Department on Jackson Avenue.

Donations from businesses or individuals can also be mailed to the RPD at P.O. Box 1000, Russellville, AL 35653.

All donations will be completed by this Friday and given to the Risner and Oliver families to support them in this time of need.

In addition, the Sheffield Police Department has set up a Good Samaritan account with Bank Independent for Risner’s family.