ST. GABRIEL, La. – Authorities are investigating two inmate fatalities at the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center, raising concerns over safety and health conditions within the facility. The Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the deaths of Kavon Matthews and Michael Johnson, both of whom passed away within a day of each other.
Matthews, sentenced for two counts of simple burglary from Orleans Parish, died on October 16. Just a day later, Michael Johnson, who was serving a life term for armed robbery from East Baton Rouge Parish, was also found deceased, according to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections.
In a troubling development, another inmate reportedly attempted suicide on October 18 but is currently in recovery. The Sheriff’s Office has requested autopsies for both Matthews and Johnson to clarify the circumstances surrounding their deaths, with toxicology results pending for all three inmates involved in these incidents.
Recent reports have indicated ongoing issues at the facility, including allegations of drug-related activities. This follows a series of alarming events, including a September 2025 incident where an inmate was mistakenly released and died shortly after. Such incidents have prompted scrutiny and questions regarding the management and conditions at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center.
In response to these developing concerns, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has instructed the State Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the facility’s operations. The governor’s action underscores the seriousness of the ongoing issues within the prison system and aims to ensure the safety and well-being of its inmates.
As the investigation unfolds, community members and advocates for prison reform are calling for increased oversight of the correctional system to prevent further tragedies. They argue that significant changes are needed to address the systemic problems that have plagued the facility and its management for years.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are committed to providing updates as they continue to gather more information. The fate of inmates and their treatment within correctional facilities continues to be a critical issue for Louisiana’s justice system.