WARTBURG, Tenn. (Story courtesy of WVLT) – A Morgan County Correctional Complex inmate stabbed a correctional officer Tuesday, according to the Tennessee Department of Correction and District Attorney General Russell Johnson. That officer has been identified by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office as Dustin Pedigo, 35, and the inmate has been identified as Reginald Steed.
A spokesperson for the state confirmed over email the Department of Correction was investigating the officer’s death as a homicide, adding that investigators believe an inmate killed the officer.
“The inmate who fatally stabbed the corrections officer has been transported to another facility,” Johnson said. His office oversees the ninth judicial district, which includes Morgan County.
That TDOC spokesperson said the facility had been placed on lockdown, also sharing support for the officer and their family.
“The inmate responsible has been identified, and the facility has been placed on lockdown,” the spokesperson said. “This is a heartbreaking moment for our department and for the entire TDOC family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the officer’s family, friends, and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.”
Steed is currently serving a 27-year sentence for aggravated assault, especially aggravated kidnapping and attempted voluntary manslaughter, according to TDOC.
Morgan County Correctional Complex (wvlt)
