Early Monday morning, inmates at the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center in Windsor, North Carolina, seized control of portions of the facility, prompting a multi-agency law enforcement response. The incident began around 5 a.m. when a group of inmates overpowered correctional staff, taking two guards hostage while a third guard managed to escape unharmed.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) reported that 88 inmates and three guards were present inside the jail at the time of the takeover. Local, state, and federal authorities, including the FBI, quickly mobilized to address the situation. Through a combination of negotiations and tactical operations, law enforcement secured the safe release of the two hostage guards and approximately 80 inmates, leaving just eight inmates remaining inside.

Bertie County Sheriff Tyrone Ruffin confirmed that the two guards who had been held captive were receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. He emphasized there was no threat to the surrounding community throughout the event.

By early afternoon, authorities had fully regained control of the facility, with the SBI announcing that the detention center had been “cleared” and all individuals accounted for. Following the resolution, inmates were transferred to other secure locations as officials began assessing the damage incurred during the unrest.

Windsor is located roughly 120 miles east of Raleigh. The incident is under investigation, with officials continuing to evaluate the circumstances that led to the inmates’ initial takeover and the extent of any injuries sustained. The detention center remains secured as authorities complete their review.