Two men being held in the Jefferson County jail were killed Saturday afternoon when an altercation broke out among several detainees, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office, which runs the jail.
During the fight, 24-year-old Darrion Dashawn Williams and 22-year-old Jonathan Danard Harris were stabbed with foreign objects.
“Detention staff responded, removed the injured individuals from the area, and began lifesaving measures,” according to a news release from Lt. Dennis Kendall. “First responders arrived and continued medical treatment; however, both detainees succumbed to their injuries.”
‘The incident happened at about 2:47 p.m. Officials, following protocol, placed the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center, where the incident took place, on lockdown, while jail staff collected evidence.
“At least two other detainees believed to be involved have been identified and will be interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation,” according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Williams was being held in connection with several charges, including capital murder, terroristic act, and having prohibited articles, according to the Sheriff’s Office website
Harris was being held in connection with first degree battery, terroristic act and second degree unlawful discharge of a firearm in a vehicle, according to the same website. He was being held for the U.S. Marshals Service.
“Today’s events are devastating,” said Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. “On behalf of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, I extend my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Mr. Williams and Mr. Harris. We are pursuing a thorough criminal investigation to determine exactly what happened and to hold all responsible parties accountable.”
Woods, members of the command staff, and the facility chaplain, Lt. Anthony Craig, met with the families of both victims.
“This remains an active criminal investigation,” stated the news release. “Additional information, including charging decisions when appropriate, will be released as it becomes available and when it will not compromise investigative integrity.”