Tragedy struck at the Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility in southern Oklahoma, resulting in the deaths of two inmates and injuries to several others. The incident, described as a 'group disturbance,' occurred on Friday and is currently under investigation by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections.
According to a statement from Kay Thompson, the department's chief of public relations, the disturbance was triggered by an 'operational error' that allowed the security threat groups, commonly known as gangs, to engage in the violent altercation.
As a precautionary measure, the facility has been placed on lockdown, and all visitations have been canceled for the weekend. The GEO Group, the security company responsible for operating the prison, confirmed that the deaths and injuries were a result of an inmate-on-inmate assault.
While the names of the deceased inmates were not disclosed, it was reported that two other inmates sustained serious injuries, with one being airlifted to the hospital and the other transported by vehicle. Additionally, several inmates with minor injuries received treatment at the facility.
Thompson emphasized that the exact cause of the operational error is still under investigation and will be revealed once the inquiry is concluded. She assured that the Oklahoma Department of Corrections is collaborating closely with The GEO Group to determine the circumstances leading to the incident and implement necessary corrective measures.
The GEO Group reiterated its commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of all individuals under its care, condemning any acts of violence within the facility. The Lawton Correctional and Rehabilitation Facility, in operation since 1998, has a capacity for 2,682 inmates and is situated approximately 86 miles southwest of Oklahoma City.
