Photos show massive destruction after Massachusetts prison riot

SHIRLEY, Mass. — Photos released Tuesday by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections show the destruction caused by a riot inside a maximum security prison Monday night.

After a fight inside the Souza Baranowski prison in Shirley, Massachusetts, groups of inmates refused to be locked back in their cells and started a riot, which lasted about 3 hours and prompted the evacuation of all security personnel in the unit.

The prison, which is the current home of former New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez, was put on lockdown after 46 inmates caused significant damage to the prison’s P1 Unit.

After the riot was subdued, prison officials told FOX25 the unit was a “total loss.”

Pictures posted to the Mass DOC Facebook page Tuesday morning showed the aftermath of the riot.

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“Sprinkler heads were broken off, camera systems were destroyed, the computer system in the unit was destroyed along with extensive damage to other parts of the unit,” DOC Commissioner Thomas Turco said.

In Tuesday’s post, Mass DOC officials said disciplinary sanctions will be brought against the inmates who were involved.

“The inmates involved will be housed in various segregation units throughout the agency while the investigation is conducted. Once completed, the inmates involved will face disciplinary sanctions and we will work with the District Attorney to determine whether criminal charges will be lodged.

“SBCC will remain locked down until the investigation is completed.”

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According to officials, the riot was started after a fight between “high ranking” gang members inside the unit.

MORE: Inmates riot, trash part of Shirley's maximum security prison

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