Wallens Ridge State Prison Stabbing: Inmate Attack Injures Three Officers, MS-13 and Sureño 13 Members Involved
On Friday, May 2, 2025, at approximately 9:45 AM, a violent stabbing attack occurred at Wallens Ridge State Prison in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. Six inmates, including five affiliated with the notorious MS-13 gang and one associated with the Sureño 13 gang, launched a coordinated assault on corrections officers. The attack resulted in three officers sustaining injuries, two of whom remain hospitalized in stable condition.(New York Post)
Details of the Attack
According to the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), the assault was premeditated and executed with precision. The inmates utilized makeshift weapons to overpower the officers during a routine security check. The swift response of fellow staff members and the facility’s security protocols prevented further casualties.
Inmate Profiles
- MS-13 Members: Five of the assailants are confirmed members of the MS-13 gang, a violent organization with origins in El Salvador. These individuals have prior convictions for serious crimes, including murder and rape. They were reportedly in the United States illegally at the time of their incarceration.(CBS News, New York Post, VADOC — Homepage)
- Sureño 13 Member: The sixth inmate is a U.S. citizen affiliated with the Sureño 13 gang, a Southern California-based criminal group. He is serving a sentence for second-degree murder.(New York Post)
Officer Injuries and Medical Response
The injured officers were immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. Two officers have been released after receiving medical attention, while the third remains under observation in stable condition. The VADOC has not released the names of the officers involved to protect their privacy.
Investigation and Law Enforcement Response
The VADOC, in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, has initiated a thorough investigation into the incident. The prison was placed on lockdown following the attack, and additional security measures have been implemented to prevent further incidents. The identities of the inmates involved have been confirmed, and charges are pending.
Prison Security and Gang Activity
Wallens Ridge State Prison is a Level 5 supermax facility designed to house the state’s most dangerous offenders. Despite its high-security status, the prison has faced challenges related to gang activity. Inmates affiliated with MS-13 and other gangs have been known to operate within the facility, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures.(Wikipedia, The Virginia Defender)
Statements from Officials
- VADOC Director Chad Dotson: “This attack underscores the daily risks faced by our corrections officers. Their bravery and commitment to public safety are commendable.”
- Governor Glenn Youngkin: “We are providing all necessary resources to ensure the safety of our correctional staff and to hold those responsible accountable.”
Community and National Reactions
The incident has sparked discussions about prison safety and the influence of gangs within correctional facilities. Advocacy groups have called for increased oversight and reforms to address these issues. The national spotlight on MS-13 and Sureño 13 has intensified, with calls for stricter immigration enforcement and gang prevention programs.(New York Post)
Conclusion
The stabbing at Wallens Ridge State Prison serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by corrections officers and the challenges of managing gang activity within high-security facilities. As investigations continue, the VADOC is committed to enhancing security protocols and ensuring the safety of all staff and inmates.
Note: The information provided in this report is based on available sources and may be subject to change as the investigation progresses.
