Inmate Dies at Ridgeland Correctional Institution
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is investigating the death of a 38-year-old prisoner as a suspected suicide.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Crime — General
Christopher X. Trice was found unresponsive in his cell at Ridgeland Correctional Institution on October 25, 2026. Officials are currently investigating the death as a suspected suicide.
Why it matters
The death of an inmate under state custody prompts investigations by multiple agencies to ensure prison protocols were followed. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the exact cause of death.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Jasper County Coroner's Office, and the S.C. Department of Corrections are investigating the death. An autopsy is currently scheduled to confirm the cause of death.
The players
South Carolina Law Enforcement Division
This is the primary investigative agency for the state, frequently tasked with probing deaths occurring within the South Carolina correctional system.
Christopher X. Trice
He was a 38-year-old inmate serving concurrent 23-year prison sentences for burglary, armed robbery, and manslaughter.
Ridgeland Correctional Institution
Located in South Carolina, this is a medium-security state prison facility that houses male inmates.
Jasper County Coroner's Office
This local government agency is responsible for investigating deaths that occur within its jurisdiction, including those at the state prison.
The details
Trice was serving concurrent 23-year sentences after pleading guilty to first-degree burglary, armed robbery, and manslaughter in 2015. He was housed at the Ridgeland Correctional Institution, a medium-security facility for men.
Timeline
Trice pleaded guilty to multiple criminal charges in 2015.
Christopher X. Trice died on October 25, 2026.
Legal Context
The investigation into this incident follows the mandated protocols set by the South Carolina Department of Corrections for all in-custody deaths. These procedures aim to maintain oversight and transparency within the state's prison system.
This investigation involves multiple state and local agencies working to clarify the circumstances of the death within a state-run facility. Such proceedings ensure that correctional protocols are under review to maintain safety standards for both staff and inmates.
The takeaway
Authorities are currently working to finalize the results of the autopsy to provide a definitive cause of death. Further updates will depend on the findings released by the investigators.
Further reading
For more information on legal and investigative proceedings in the state, visit the South Carolina Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Herald.
