UPDATE: According to Liberty County Sheriff’s Capt. David Meyers, the Liberty County Fire Marshal’s Office has determined that the cause of the fire at the jail was a faulty UV lighting ballast.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE:
A fire broke out at the Liberty County Jail around 10 p.m. Monday, April 7, prompting a swift response from correctional officers, sheriff’s deputies and the Liberty Fire Department.
When firefighters arrived at the facility on Beaumont Avenue, they discovered flames on the west end of the jail and quickly began working to extinguish them. Correctional officers, with assistance from deputies, moved inmates from the affected area to the east end of the jail to ensure their safety.
Capt. David Meyers, spokesperson for the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, said firefighters had the fire under control within about an hour. An industrial fan is being used to remove smoke from the west end before inmates are returned to their dorms.
Authorities believe the fire was intentionally set by a male inmate, though how he obtained the materials and started the fire remains under investigation.
“Once we get the inmates back to their dorms, we will begin interviews,” Meyers said.
During the incident, a window on the west end of the jail was broken. Meyers said it is unclear whether the window was broken by firefighters to access the fire or by an inmate during the incident.
When asked whether the fire was an attempt to incite a riot, Meyers said there is no indication that was the case.
“We don’t believe so. Nothing points in that direction at this point in time,” he said.
Meyers praised the Liberty Fire Department for its rapid response and efforts.
“Liberty Fire Department did an amazing job. I have been in close contact with the Chief [Brian Hurst] and he has walked me through everything they have done,” he said.
The incident remains under investigation.
Republicans is fixing to make the Taxpayers build Rader a brand new jail
We definately need it.
Yes they should cause the one we have is over crowded with Democrats
Always remember Anthony that not all Democrats are criminals but all criminals are Democrats
I wonder how much money Republicans made off Colony Ridge.
Can you possibly understand how ignorant you sound?
Wonder why there’s no mention of the failed fire inspections? Strange how you have to hear about these things from out of town news media.