The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 13 letter word UNFORTUNATELY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Sunday Telegraph
U
N
F
O
R
T
U
N
A
T
E
L
Y
More clues leading to the result UNFORTUNATELY
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "alas" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case alas = unfortunately.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
Crossword Answer definitions
UNFORTUNATELY adverb- Happening through bad luck, or because of some unfortunate event.
- Used (as a parenthetical word) to express disappointment, compassion, sorrow, regret or grief.