Patrick Chase Massey
Patrick Chase Massey, 34, of Greer, South Carolina, was held at Ridgeland Correctional Institution in Jasper County when he died on December 10, 2024. His family, who say he had no history of violence and was known as kind and non-confrontational, has sued the South Carolina Department of Corrections, alleging that staff placed a violent cellmate in his cell despite known risks. The Department said he was found unresponsive in his cell after an apparent fight, and a Jasper County grand jury has indicted the cellmate for murder, alleging he was strangled with a nylon strap. The cellmate has not been tried, and the family's lawsuit remains a claim, while an autopsy was to be performed.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by another person in custody (neglect alleged). The South Carolina Department of Corrections says his cellmate killed him, and his mother's lawsuit alleges staff placed a violent cellmate in his cell despite known risks.
Reported by: South Carolina Department of Corrections (the agency that held him); Jasper County grand jury (court); his mother's lawsuit (family or their lawyers).
Lawsuit: His mother filed a civil lawsuit against the South Carolina Department of Corrections over his death, and no settlement or award amount has been reported.
News reports (5)
- Jasper County inmate dead: Prison fight at Ridgeland Correctional Institution under investigation
- Jasper County Inmate charged with murder of his cellmate
- Jasper County inmate accused of murdering cellmate
- Jasper Co. inmate’s mom sues SC Dept. of Corrections over son’s death
- Jasper Co. inmate accused of killing cellmate indicted on murder charges