SC National Guardsman Who Went Missing in Laurens County Lake
COLUMBIA, S.C. – A tragic incident has occurred on Lake Greenwood last Saturday involving a South Carolina Army National Guardsman, Staff Sgt. Porsha D. Griffin. Griffin, a 30-year-old from Hopkins, went for a tubing expedition on the lake, never resurfaced and since then, has been missing.
The Search Continues for Griffin, who is Believed to have Drowned
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) confirmed that officers, investigators, and divers are working relentlessly on the scene, employing resources such as sonar and side-scans in a specific area based on witness information.
It is believed that Griffin may have drowned following the tubing incident, but until now, her body hasn’t been found. The search continues in hopes of bringing conclusion to this tragic incident, and answers to Griffin’s family, friends, and colleagues.
Porsha Griffin, A Valued Member of The 116th Tactical Installation Networking Enhanced Company
Griffin, a Hopkins native, was a valued member of the 116th Tactical Installation Networking Enhanced Company attached to the 228th Theater Tactical Signal Brigade based in Spartanburg. Her unit is deeply affected by her sudden disappearance and the ongoing search.
Col. Linda Riedel, Griffin’s commander, expressed deep concern and sadness for the missing Guardsman, “Of course, we are saddened beyond words, and we’ll continue to pray the search for her yields answers for all who care about her, as well as for peace for her daughter and extended family.”
Echoes of Griefand Solidarity
The tragedy has elicited an outpouring of grief and solidarity from Griffin’s community in Hopkins and her fellow National Guardsmen. The undertaking to find Griffin underlines the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie that exist within the military. While the search goes on, the community, her peers and authorities continue to hold out hope.
The Importance of Safety Precautions
The tragic incident has cast a spotlight on the importance of safety measures and precautions when partaking in water-based activities. The authorities have reminded the public of the importance of using proper and reliable personal flotation devices while participating in recreational activities on the lakes or other bodies of water.
May the ongoing search for Griffin conclude with closure for her loved ones and remind everyone of the safety precautions needed when enjoying water-based activities.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
