3 inmates killed, 14 injured in altercation at Georgia state prison

Three inmates were killed and at least 13 others, as well as a correctional officer, were injured during a disturbance at a state prison in Georgia, according to officials.

The Georgia Department of Corrections said the disturbance occurred at about 1:25 p.m. on Sunday at Washington State Prison, located near the city of Forsyth in central Georgia, roughly 70 miles south of Atlanta.

Officials said the altercation began among several inmates on a sidewalk near the visitation area, prompting staff to initiate procedures to clear visitors from the facility.

Three inmates died as a result of injuries received during the altercation, and 13 others were transported to local hospitals for treatment. One correctional officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The inmates who died were identified by officials as Ahmod Hatcher, who was serving a 20-year sentence for aggravated assault in Richmond County; Jimmy Trammell, who was serving a 20-year sentence for first-degree burglary in Fulton County; and Teddy Jackson, who was serving a 10-year sentence for aggravated assault in Bibb County.

The Georgia Department of Corrections said the inmates involved were believed to be affiliated with security threat groups, commonly referred to as gangs.

During the response, several injured inmates entered the visitation area, though officials said no visitors were hurt and all were safely escorted out by a correctional officer.

Staff deployed non-lethal weapons and brought the situation under control by about 3:00 p.m.

The facility remains on lockdown as the investigation continues, and no additional details were immediately released.