Officer shoots and wounds inmate attempting escape at Varner Supermax Unit

An officer shot and injured an inmate trying to escape from the Varner Supermax Unit in Arkansas. The shooting occurred while the inmate was on field duty, prompting the officer to fire two rounds. The wounded inmate was transported to a hospital for treatment. Arkansas State Police and the department's internal affairs are conducting an investigation into the incident. The Varner Unit, situated about 28 miles southeast of Pine Bluff, is known for housing high-risk inmates, including one who escaped from a northern Arkansas prison in May.

Security measures at correctional facilities have been a topic of discussion following recent escape attempts. The investigation aims to determine whether proper protocols were followed during the incident. This shooting highlights ongoing concerns regarding inmate management and safety in Arkansas correctional institutions.