An inmate in Georgia obtained a firearm and proceeded to fatally shoot a young mother who was working in the prison kitchen before taking his own life. The incident occurred at Smith State Prison, where Jaydrekus Hart, convicted of voluntary manslaughter and facing additional years in prison, carried out the shooting. The victim, identified as Aureon Shavea Grace, was tragically killed by Hart, who then committed suicide.

“The weapon is currently in GDC custody, and a comprehensive investigation into the events preceding this tragic incident will be conducted,” stated the prison department.

Grace had been employed at the men’s prison in Glennville since January. The facility is designated as a close-security institution for offenders deemed violent or at risk of escape.

She was employed by Aramark, a Philadelphia-based company specializing in food services for prisons.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family,” stated Aramark spokesperson Debbie Albert. “This is a tragic event for everyone involved.”

Hart had been incarcerated since 2015 for charges of voluntary manslaughter and aggravated battery, with a potential release date as early as June 2043. He was declared deceased after fatally shooting himself, according to prison officials.

Condolences poured into an online obituary for Grace, with many expressing prayers and heartfelt sympathy for her family and children.

“Being a part of the GDC Family, I am deeply saddened for this beautiful soul,” one person wrote.

“Lord knows you’re gone way too soon,” another lamented. “Always have loved you as my own. My condolences to your family and your kids.”

This marks the second instance in the past year where a staff member at Smith State Prison has tragically lost their life to an inmate.

In October, Correctional Officer Robert Clark, aged 42, was fatally attacked from behind with a homemade weapon by an inmate serving time for murder.

Following an extensive investigation into a contraband scheme within the prison, the state took action resulting in the arrest and dismissal of the prison’s warden, Brian Adams, in February 2023.

He faced allegations of racketeering, bribery, falsifying statements, and breaching his oath as a public official.