Mitchell jail fire

On the 3rd of May, 2002, a devastating fire erupted at the Mitchell County jail in Bakersville, North Carolina. The facility housed 17 inmates, including individuals serving sentences for misdemeanors and those awaiting trial for felonies. Tragically, the 90-minute fire claimed the lives of 8 individuals and left 13 others injured.
The jail was constructed during the 1950s. Bakersville, a town with a population of fewer than 500 residents, was its location. The sheriff stated that, similar to numerous deteriorating correctional facilities in the region, it was imperative to replace the jail.
Category:1950s
Category:2000s