According to a statement from Tessa Outhyse, a public information officer for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, five inmates were stabbed about 6:40 p.m. Monday, May 1, during a physical disturbance involving 15 incarcerated people in a day room at High Desert State Prison.
According to the statement, staff observed an altercation break out between several individuals that quickly swelled to include 15.
“Correctional officers immediately responded, using less-than-lethal options including chemical agents, direct impact rounds and expandable batons to bring the incident under control,” according to the statement. “Eleven inmate-manufactured weapons were recovered at the scene.
“Staff quickly initiated medical measures and summoned emergency services. Five incarcerated people with stab-related wounds were transported to outside hospitals for treatment. Three have since returned to HDSP, while two remain hospitalized. One person receiving treatment is in fair condition while the other is in critical condition. No staff injuries were reported.”
HDSP is limiting movement while the incident is being investigated, and no further details are available at this time.
