Multiple correctional officers were stabbed Friday morning in a coordinated assault at Wallens Ridge State Prison involving inmates affiliated with the violent transnational gang MS-13, according to the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC).
Officials confirmed that five of the six inmates involved are MS-13 members and Salvadoran nationals who are in the United States illegally.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 a.m. inside the maximum-security facility located in Wise County.
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According to VADOC, the assault was premeditated and carried out by a group of six inmates — five MS-13 members and one U.S. citizen serving time for second-degree murder.
“These individuals launched a senseless and calculated attack against our correctional staff,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson in a public statement.
“Five of the individuals responsible for this senseless attack should never have been in the country in the first place.”
The five gang-affiliated inmates reportedly have prior convictions for violent crimes, including rape and murder.
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Officials say the sixth participant in the attack, though not affiliated with MS-13, is also a violent offender.
“Every single day, our officers put their lives on the line to ensure public safety for the more than 8.8 million people across the Commonwealth,” Dotson said.
“This attack is an example of the dangers they face when they show up to work every day. Our officers are heroes, and I commend the team at Wallens Ridge for their swift response.”
The attack left five correctional officers injured.
Three were taken to area hospitals and have since been released.
Two others remain hospitalized but are reportedly in stable condition.
The nature of their injuries has not been made public.
Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin reported the breaking story on social media, writing: “BREAKING: Three Virginia Dept. of Corrections officers were stabbed in a state prison today in what the state says was a premeditated attack involving 5 MS-13 gang members, all of whom are Salvadoran illegal aliens who have been convicted of violent crimes, such as murder & rape.”
BREAKING: Three Virginia Dept. of Corrections officers were stabbed in a state prison today in what the state says was a premeditated attack involving 5 MS-13 gang members, all of whom are Salvadoran illegal aliens who have been convicted of violent crimes, such as murder & rape. pic.twitter.com/ORW0fEEPPe
— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) May 2, 2025
The Trump administration previously designated MS-13 a transnational criminal organization, and under its policies, prioritized its members for removal.
The gang, which originated in El Salvador, has been linked to numerous violent crimes across the United States, including high-profile murders and assaults, particularly in areas where immigration enforcement has been under strain.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether federal immigration enforcement will intervene in the aftermath of the attack or whether additional security measures will be implemented at Wallens Ridge or other Virginia correctional facilities housing gang-affiliated inmates.
The incident remains under investigation. VADOC has not released the names of the inmates involved due to ongoing security and prosecutorial considerations.
Updates are expected as the Department continues its internal review and coordinates with law enforcement partners.
Wallens Ridge State Prison houses some of the most dangerous offenders in Virginia and has a history of housing high-risk inmates, including those involved in organized criminal enterprises.
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