The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) has launched a full investigation after a corrections officer was killed and two others injured in a violent attack by an inmate Monday morning at River North Correctional Center.
Jeremy Hall Death
VADOC confirmed that Corrections Officer Jeremy Lewis Hall, 40, died after being assaulted around 7:53 a.m. on November 17. Officer Hall joined the department on April 25, 2024, and had served less than a year at the facility.
“This is a heartbreaking day for our agency,” said VADOC Director Chad Dotson. “Our agency, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and corrections professionals around the nation join us in mourning the loss of Officer Hall. Our hearts continue to be with Officer Hall’s family, friends, and his fellow public safety heroes at River North.”
Two additional corrections officers were also injured during the attack and transported to a local hospital. Both have since been released.
“Please join me in wishing a full recovery to those officers, along with extending support to their families and friends,” Dotson added.
National Support for VADOC
Expressions of support have come in from corrections agencies nationwide. The New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJDOC) issued a public statement extending condolences and solidarity.
Jeremy Hall Richmond VA: VADOC Officer Died in “Vicious Attack” at River North Correctional Center
“The New Jersey Department of Corrections stands with the Virginia Department of Corrections today as they mourn the loss of a corrections officer killed in the line of duty,” the NJDOC wrote. “Our thoughts are with the officer’s family, the injured staff member, and the entire VADOC community navigating an unthinkable tragedy. We send our sincere well wishes for the injured officer’s recovery.”
The statement continued, “We honor the service, commitment, and sacrifice of their fallen officer, and we stand with their team as they begin to heal.”
Investigation Ongoing
The Office of Law Enforcement Services (OLES) within VADOC is leading the ongoing investigation. Officials say further details — including the identity of the inmate and circumstances leading to the attack — will be released once confirmed.
River North Correctional Center, a high-security state facility, is expected to increase internal security measures as the investigation continues.
Officer Hall’s death marks one of the most serious attacks on correctional staff in Virginia in recent years. Grief counselors and support services are being made available to staff at the facility.
