WISE COUNTY, Va. — Three corrections officers were stabbed in a premeditated attack at Wallens Ridge State Prison, reportedly carried out by members of the MS-13 and Sureño 13 gangs, according to Virginia prison officials.
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) said the assault occurred around 9:45 a.m. on May 2 and involved six inmates — five confirmed MS-13 members originally from El Salvador and a sixth U.S. citizen affiliated with the Sureño 13 gang. All are serving sentences for violent crimes, including aggravated murder, first- and second-degree murder, and rape.
Five corrections officers were transported to outside medical facilities following the attack. Three have since been released, including two who sustained minor injuries while responding to the incident. Two others remain hospitalized in stable condition.
“This senseless attack was carried out by individuals, five of whom should never have been in this country,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “Every single day, our officers put their lives on the line to protect the 8.8 million residents of the Commonwealth. This incident highlights the real dangers they face. Our officers are heroes, and I commend the Wallens Ridge team for their swift and courageous response.”
The incident remains under active investigation.