Big Stone Gap, Virginia — A violent altercation erupted at Wallens Ridge State Prison Friday morning when a group of inmates, reportedly linked to the MS-13 gang, attacked three correctional officers. The incident occurred around 9:45 a.m. and involved six inmates, five of whom are known members of the notorious El Salvadoran criminal organization.
According to the Virginia Department of Corrections, the assault appeared to be premeditated. Chad Dotson, the director of the agency, expressed deep concern over the event, emphasizing that the five gang members should not have been in the country. “Every day, our officers face risks to protect the safety of more than 8.8 million residents across the Commonwealth,” Dotson stated. “This incident highlights the dangers they encounter daily.”
The five gang affiliates are all serving sentences for severe crimes, including murder and sexual assault. The sixth inmate, who is affiliated with the Sureño 13 gang, is a U.S. citizen currently serving a sentence for second-degree murder.
Following the attacks, five correctional officers were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Two of those officers, including two with minor injuries, have since been released, while two others remain hospitalized but in stable condition.
Authorities launched an investigation into the incident, which is currently ongoing. Neither the Department of Homeland Security nor the Virginia Attorney General’s Office has responded to requests for comments.
This incident highlights ongoing national discussions surrounding MS-13. Recently, cases have drawn attention to the complexities of immigration enforcement. A related high-profile case involves Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was deported to El Salvador after being apprehended by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in March. Despite being granted protection from deportation by an immigration judge, he was sent back to a notorious Salvadoran prison. His legal representation has asserted that he is not involved with any gangs and has denied any associated wrongdoing.
MS-13, which emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, is known for its brutal tactics and widespread violent crimes. The gang has established a significant presence in areas like Long Island, New York, and has gained notoriety for its ruthless violence, particularly in suburban regions. The group has been classified as a foreign terrorist organization by various government entities in light of its aggressive practices.
The recent attack at Wallens Ridge State Prison serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by correctional officers and the ongoing threat posed by violent gangs in the U.S. As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement remains focused on addressing the issues surrounding gang violence and the broader implications of immigration policies.