A deadly riot broke out at Washington State Prison in Davisboro, Georgia, on January 12, 2026, leaving three inmates dead and at least 13 others injured, including one corrections officer. Officials say the violence started during visitation hours and quickly turned into major fights, highlighting ongoing problems like staffing shortages and security issues in the state’s prison system.
What Happened at the Prison
The incident unfolded on a Sunday afternoon at the medium-security facility located about 130 miles southeast of Atlanta. According to local authorities, fights erupted among inmates and spread fast, leading to chaos that required help from multiple law enforcement agencies.
Witness accounts and initial reports suggest the trouble began in common areas during family visits. This timing added to the danger, as visitors were present when the violence started. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office, along with state patrol and other groups, stepped in to regain control. By evening, the situation was under control, but the damage was already done.
Investigators are now looking into what sparked the fights. Early details point to possible gang tensions or disputes over resources, common issues in crowded prisons. No weapons were mentioned in official statements, but improvised items might have been used.
Casualties and Immediate Aftermath
Three inmates lost their lives in the riot. Their names, released by officials, are Ahmod Hatcher, Jimmy Trammell, and Teddy Jackson. These men were pronounced dead at the scene or shortly after, with causes likely from blunt force or stabbings, though autopsies are pending.
In addition to the deaths, 12 to 14 inmates suffered injuries ranging from minor cuts to serious wounds needing hospital care. One corrections officer was also hurt while trying to break up the fights. All injured parties were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Here is a breakdown of the reported casualties:
- Deaths: 3 inmates (Ahmod Hatcher, Jimmy Trammell, Teddy Jackson)
- Injured Inmates: 12 to 14, with various levels of severity
- Injured Staff: 1 corrections officer, treated for non-life-threatening wounds
Medical teams responded quickly, but the high number of injuries strained local resources. Families of the victims have started reaching out for more information, adding to the emotional toll.
This event marks another tragic loss in a system already facing scrutiny for inmate safety.
Official Response and Investigation
The Georgia Department of Corrections called in support from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, Davisboro Police, and Georgia State Patrol. Sheriff Joel Cochran described the scene as horrible and confirmed that major fights broke out early in the afternoon.
An investigation is underway to find out the root causes and hold those responsible accountable. Officials have not released details on arrests or charges yet, but they promise a full review. The prison is now on lockdown to prevent further issues.
State leaders have expressed concern. Governor Brian Kemp’s office issued a statement calling for better safety measures in prisons. This response shows the growing pressure on the system to address violence.
Background on Washington State Prison
Washington State Prison opened in 1990 and houses about 1,500 medium-security inmates. It focuses on rehabilitation programs, but recent years have seen reports of understaffing and maintenance problems.
The facility has faced criticism for poor conditions, including outdated security systems. In 2025, a state audit found that staffing levels were 20 percent below recommended numbers, leading to slower response times during incidents.
Compared to other Georgia prisons, this one has a history of minor disturbances, but nothing on this scale until now. The location in rural Davisboro makes it hard to attract enough qualified staff, worsening the issues.
Broader Issues in Georgia’s Prison System
This riot is not an isolated event. Georgia’s prisons have seen a rise in violence over the past few years, with at least 15 inmate deaths from fights in 2025 alone. Experts blame chronic problems like overcrowding, lack of mental health support, and gang activity.
For context, here is a table of recent violent incidents in Georgia prisons:
| Year | Prison Name | Incident Type | Deaths | Injuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Fulton County Jail | Inmate Fight | 2 | 8 |
| 2025 | Donaldson Prison | Stabbing Spree | 4 | 15 |
| 2025 | Stanton Correctional | Gang Assault | 1 | 10 |
| 2026 | Washington State Prison | Riot | 3 | 13 |
These numbers show a pattern that has drawn national attention. Advocacy groups call for reforms, such as better training for guards and more funding for facilities. Without changes, experts warn that more tragedies could happen.
The state has tried some fixes, like hiring bonuses for officers, but progress is slow. This latest riot adds urgency to the debate on prison reform.
Public Reactions and Next Steps
People across Georgia and beyond have reacted with shock and anger. Social media is filled with posts demanding accountability and better conditions for inmates. Families of prisoners worry about safety, while others point to the need for systemic change.
Local communities near the prison feel the impact too, as emergency services were tied up for hours. Some residents call for more transparency from the Department of Corrections.
As the investigation continues, officials plan to review security footage and interview witnesses. Updates are expected in the coming days.
What do you think about prison safety in Georgia? Share your thoughts in the comments below and pass this article along to spark discussion.
