MORGAN COUNTY, Tenn. — A Tennessee correctional officer has died after being stabbed by an inmate Tuesday at the Morgan County Correctional Complex. The shocking act of violence has left fellow officers, state leaders, and the local community grieving the loss of a man described as a devoted public servant, husband, and father.
The Tennessee Department of Correction confirmed that Officer Dustin Pedigo, 35, was fatally injured during the attack. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office also identified Pedigo and honored his service in a public statement, calling his death a tremendous loss to the community and the state.
District Attorney General Russell Johnson said the inmate responsible for the attack stabbed Officer Pedigo, causing fatal injuries. The inmate has been identified and transferred to another correctional facility. Following the incident, the prison was immediately placed on lockdown as authorities worked to secure the facility and begin their investigation.
TDOC’s investigative division is now leading the case. Johnson noted that compiling the full case file will take time before it can be presented for review. The next Morgan County grand jury meeting is scheduled for May 26, when the case could potentially move forward in the legal process.
In a heartfelt statement, the sheriff’s office said, “Officer Pedigo made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the State of Tennessee. He was not only a dedicated correctional officer, but a husband and father whose life and service mattered deeply.” TDOC also described the incident as a heartbreaking moment for the department and extended prayers and condolences to Pedigo’s family, friends, and colleagues.
State lawmakers Rep. Ed Butler of Rickman and Sen. Ken Yager of Kingston issued a joint statement expressing both sadness and outrage over the killing. They pledged that the violent act would be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. As the investigation continues, the Morgan County community mourns a fallen officer who gave his life while serving the state.
