Connecticut Settles Lawsuit in Prison Death Case
The state agrees to pay $1 million to the estate of an inmate killed by his cellmate at MacDougall Correctional Institution.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Criminal Justice
Connecticut has reached a $1 million settlement agreement with the family of Kenneth Montaner-Buscampell, who died while incarcerated. The 26-year-old was killed by his cellmate in December 2024.
Why it matters
The settlement aims to provide recovery for the estate of Kenneth Montaner-Buscampell while avoiding the expense of further litigation. Connecticut authorities also confirmed they will not pursue a cost-of-incarceration lien against the awarded funds.
The settlement requires final approval from probate Judge Daniel Mara to be fully executed. Kyle McKinnon, who was charged with the murder, was previously found not guilty by reason of insanity and committed to the Psychiatric Review Board.
The players
Kenneth Montaner-Buscampell
He was a 26-year-old inmate serving a two-year prison sentence at the time of his death.
Kyle McKinnon
He is an inmate serving a nine-year sentence who was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the murder.
Daniel Mara
He is the probate judge responsible for reviewing and authorizing the final settlement agreement.
The details
Kenneth Montaner-Buscampell was killed by his cellmate, Kyle McKinnon, at MacDougall Correctional Institution. Investigators found that McKinnon allegedly strangled the victim before placing his body on a table within their shared cell.
Timeline
Kenneth Montaner-Buscampell was killed on Dec. 12, 2024.
Details of the $1 million settlement were published on Oct. 23, 2026.
Legal Context
The decision to waive the cost-of-incarceration lien marks a departure from typical state fiscal policy regarding inmate estates. This case highlights ongoing scrutiny regarding inmate safety protocols and institutional liability within the Connecticut prison system.
The settlement resolves a high-profile case involving institutional security, potentially influencing future safety protocols at state facilities. Residents and taxpayers may follow the probate process as the court reviews the final distribution of the settlement funds.
The takeaway
This settlement closes a legal chapter for the family of the deceased by securing financial recovery without prolonged court proceedings. The state’s agreement to waive its lien serves as a significant administrative step in finalizing the liability claim.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing legal reforms and oversight in the Criminal Justice section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CT Insider.
