A Polk Correctional Institution inmate died after setting a fire in his cell this afternoon.
The inmate set the fire at approximately 3:30 p.m. and was taken to a local medical facility for treatment. He was pronounced dead at 4:47 p.m.
The inmate’s name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
The incident was contained to the inmate’s cell and staff extinguished the fire. No staff or other inmates were injured in the incident.
DPS, local law enforcement and fire officials are investigating the incident.
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