WINDSOR, N.C. (AP) — In a surprising turn of events on Monday morning, inmates at the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center in Windsor, North Carolina, seized control of parts of the facility after overpowering correctional staff. The incident began around 5 a.m., involving three guards and 88 inmates at the detention center. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation reported that local, state, and federal authorities responded immediately to the situation.

Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin addressed the situation, assuring the public that there was no immediate threat to the general community. Windsor is located approximately 120 miles (190 kilometers) east of Raleigh, the state capital. As the situation escalated, it was made known that two guards were taken captive by the inmates, while a third guard managed to escape the compound.

Following the initial takeover, negotiations were initiated, resulting in the release of 18 inmates and the two guards around 9:30 a.m. A short time later, authorities facilitated the release of another substantial group of inmates. The update on the condition of the two guards indicated they were released without further injury; however, details regarding the overall number of individuals still inside the facility were not disclosed.

In response to the situation, jail administrators, alongside several law enforcement agencies, actively worked to achieve a swift and peaceful resolution to restore full control over the detention center. Sheriff Ruffin emphasized that the top priority remains the safety of both staff and inmates, as well as the surrounding community.

In an effort to secure the area, a secure perimeter was established around the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center. Furthermore, the public was advised to steer clear of the immediate vicinity while authorities addressed the pivotal situation occurring within the jail.