Several staff members and inmates were being assessed for medical issues after a fire that broke out at the Cochise County jail Friday. Law enforcement officials criticized the conditions of the jail.
The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office says the fire broke out Friday morning and was caused by a malfunctioning door motor in one of the facility’s loading areas.
In a post on Facebook, the office says toxic smoke filled the loading area and hallway leading to the kitchen. Three kitchen workers, two inmates and one detention officer were initially evaluated for smoke inhalation and other minor injuries. And six additional staff members have since been taken in for medical evaluation.
Sheriff’s officials said the jail’s conditions are “deplorable” and that permanent updates are needed. The jail was built in 1985.
