WINDSOR, N.C. — A hostage situation involving prison guards took place after inmates "overpowered" staff and gained control of certain portions of the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center on Monday has ended, according to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NC SBI).
In an update shared by NC SBI around 1:44 p.m., they said the situation had ended with SBI and FBI personnel clearing the facility. Those who were left injured has received treatment. Inmates will be transferred to other facilities while the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center is assessed.
Around 5 a.m., the inmates were able to seize control of the facility. During the takeover, 88 inmates and three guards were inside the facility. NC SBI said on-duty guards were assaulted. One guard was able to escape before the hostage situation began.
NC SBI says this takeover prompted a response from over 20 law enforcement agencies, involving local, state and federal authorities.
Around 9:30 a.m., 18 inmates and the two guards were able to leave the facility amid negotiations. Then, around 20 minutes later, another group of inmates were released to the authorities, according to NC SBI.
During a later press conference, officials said NC SBI made entry into the facility and worked to take the remaining inmates into custody.
A perimeter was set up around the detention center. NC SBI asked the public to avoid the area as authorities responded to this incident.
“Our top priority is the safety of our staff, inmates, and the surrounding community,” said Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin. “We are coordinating closely with multiple law enforcement partners to resolve this situation safely and as quickly as possible.”
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