Inmates started an early morning fire June 16, 2026, at the Muscogee County Jail in retaliation for cell “shakedowns” according to a statement from Sheriff Greg Countryman. The fire caused significant damage shown in photos from inside the jail and shared to the sheriff’s social media pages. Below is Sheriff Countryman’s full statement regarding the overnight incident.
The Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office Jail Bureau conducted cell shakedowns for weapons and contraband to ensure safety. Presently, the MCSO Jail is about 200 over our maximum capacity. Several prohibited items were found, to include handmade weapons. In retaliation of prohibited items being removed, inmates in a South Tower dorm made wicks from tissue. The wick was place in a vent causing a fire with heavy smoke. We believe the wick may have been ignited by an electrical outlet.
Approximately 500 inmates were immediately escorted into secure and non-secure areas of the jail for safety concerns. MCSO on and off-duty deputies responded to the Jail, as well as officers with the Columbus Police Department. MCSO K9 Units also responded to ensure no escape efforts were made. Inmates who required medical attention were seen by our medical provider…