Officials acknowledge prisoners have harmed themselves but say they did not set themselves on fire or self-immolate

Summary

Incarcerated individuals at Virginia’s Red Onion State Prison have reportedly burned themselves in protest of alleged inhumane conditions, including racial abuse, excessive solitary confinement, and neglect.

The Virginia Department of Corrections confirmed six incidents but denied reports of self-immolation, while others claim 12 men were injured.

Protesters and advocacy groups, including the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, demand an independent investigation, citing reports of maggot-infested food, physical abuse, and poor medical care.

Incarcerated journalist Kevin “Rashid” Johnson, who exposed the protests, was placed in solitary confinement, allegedly as retaliation.