Four inmates sustained injuries following a fire incident at the 201 Poplar jail facility in Memphis, Tennessee, as confirmed by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO).

Disturbances and Response

Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner of SCSO reported multiple disturbances occurring around 10 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024, within the county jail situated on Poplar Avenue in Downtown Memphis. Buckner mentioned that the disturbances involved inmates setting objects ablaze and hurling them, leading to a situation requiring prompt intervention.

Prompt Intervention and De-escalation

Upon receiving reports of the disturbances, deputies swiftly responded to the scene, where they discovered objects set on fire within a housing unit. Jail personnel efficiently extinguished the flames and managed to de-escalate the situation before it escalated further.

Incident Details

Buckner, in a video released on the department’s official platform, revealed that during the disturbances, at least one cell door was damaged, although the main door remained intact. He highlighted that the housing unit’s main door was barricaded from the inside using bed sheets. Despite this obstacle, law enforcement authorities successfully gained access to the unit and utilized a chemical agent to safely resolve the situation.

Inmate Injuries and Response

While the four injured inmates sustained non-life-threatening injuries, they received immediate medical attention. The sheriff’s office swiftly relocated them within the jail premises following the incident. Fortunately, no personnel from SCSO were harmed during the course of events.

Further Investigations and Future Measures

In light of the disturbances, Buckner emphasized the pressing need for a new jail facility and additional corrections personnel. He asserted the department’s unwavering stance against such disruptive behavior, affirming that the incident is subject to criminal investigation, with charges expected to be filed against those responsible.

Conclusion: Ensuring Safety and Accountability

The incident at 201 Poplar underscores the ongoing challenges faced by correctional facilities in maintaining safety and order. SCSO’s swift response and effective management of the situation reflect their commitment to ensuring the well-being of both inmates and staff. As investigations proceed, efforts to enhance security measures and address underlying issues remain paramount to prevent similar incidents in the future.

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Source:

• Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO)

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