LAKE CITY, Fla. — Two inmates were pronounced dead and one is in stable condition due to a suspected drug overdose at Columbia Correctional Institution in Lake City Saturday afternoon, according to the Florida Department of Corrections.
The three inmates were found unresponsive at around 3:15 p.m., a spokesperson said. Security and medical staff performed life-saving measures and were later taken to a hospital to be treated for symptoms related to potential drug exposure.
“At this time, our focus is on the health and swift recovery of the officers and individuals involved," Michelle Glady from the Florida Department of Corrections said. "The facility has been placed on lockdown, while we provide FDLE with everything they need to investigate this incident.”
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is leading an investigation into the incident with help from the Department's Office of Inspector General.
The identities of the inmates, as well what drugs may have been involved, have not been released.
The case remains active and visitation at the institution will be canceled Sunday.
Stay with First Coast News for more updates on this developing story.