Family alleges foul play in death of Claiborne County man at Mississippi prison

WILKINSON COUNTY, Miss.(VDN) — The family of a Claiborne County man who died while incarcerated in a Mississippi prison last month is alleging foul play and calling for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Myron Ward, 37, was found unresponsive in his cell Jan. 16 at the Wilkinson County Correctional Facility, according to reports circulated online and statements from family members. Ward was serving a 25-year sentence at the time of his death.

Family members say they were informed Ward was discovered by an orderly around 10 a.m. They allege Ward was found in a fetal position in a pool of blood, with visible bruising, and that his food tray was still in the tray slot when he was discovered. The family also claims no security rounds were conducted for several hours before his body was found, raising concerns about staffing levels at the facility, particularly during overnight shifts.

No official cause of death has been released, and no additional information has been made public by the Mississippi Department of Corrections. An autopsy is expected to be conducted.

In a written statement sent to MDOC, Ward’s family said incarceration “is not a death sentence” and alleged the facility failed to uphold its duty of care. The family also cited reports of understaffing, corruption and mistreatment of inmates at the prison.

Ward leaves behind two daughters, the family said. They are requesting an immediate and thorough investigation and say they are prepared to pursue legal action to seek accountability and justice.