2 inmates dead, 5 injured in prisoner transport van crash

TALLAPOOSA COUNTY, Ala. (WSFA/Gray News) - Two inmates were killed and 5 others were injured after a prisoner transport van crashed in Alabama on Wednesday.

Alexander City Community Based Facility inmates Willie Crayton, 60, Jakes Jones, 46, Bruce Clements, 66, Thomas Bass, 44, Heath Garrett, 50, Shawn Wasden, 33, and Richard Jackson, 58, were returning to the facility after work when the van veered off the road and hit a tree.

Authorities say Jones was driving the van. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Crayton died at the scene and Clements died at the hospital.

The other inmates were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Alabama Department of Corrections Commissioner John Hahm extended his condolences to the families of the victims. He also thanked first responders for their “quick and professional response.”

“We will be doing all we can to support the staff and inmates affected by this tragic event,” Hamm said.

The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.

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