Inmate dies after attack at Monroe Correction Complex

An inmate from the Monroe Correctional Complex has died after being attacked by another offender.

According to a press release from the Department of Corrections, the incident occurred on May 9 in the Special Offenders Unit. The victim, 45-year-old Gordon Powell, was transported to the hospital on Saturday afternoon after being assaulted by 35-year-old Benjamin Price. According to the Monroe Police Department, Powell's injuries were critical, and he was placed on life support. He was taken off life support on May 17 and passed away at approximately 9:30 a.m. on May 18.-á

Price is being held in a segregated environment while the Monroe Police Department and correctional staff investigate the incident.-á

The Special Offenders Unit (SOU) houses an approximate population of 400 mentally ill inmates at all custody levels. The assault occurred in a common area in the E Unit, which is considered a medium-custody unit.

Price was convicted in Skagit County for first-degree manslaughter and is serving a 12-year sentence. He has a prior conviction for second degree assault with a weapons enhancement.

The investigation is ongoing. -á