Georgia inmate kills kitchen worker before turning gun on himself: officials

A Georgia prison inmate shot and killed a food service worker Sunday before killing himself, authorities said.

Jaydrekus Hart, 34, was serving a 20-year sentence at Smith State Prison for voluntary manslaughter and aggravated battery. After Hart allegedly shot 24-year-old Aureon Shavea Grace, he turned the gun on himself and was later pronounced dead. The Georgia Department of Corrections is still investigating how Hart obtained the gun.

“The weapon is currently in the custody of the GDC and a full and thorough investigation into what led to this tragic incident will be conducted,” the department said. Washington Examiner. “GDC Special Agents respond and provide staffing support to the facility.”

Grace was an Aramark employee who had worked for the prison since January.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleague and our hearts and prayers go out to his family,” said Aramark spokeswoman Debbie Albert. Washington Examiner. “This is a tragedy for all of us, and we are assisting the GA DOC in its investigation.”

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Hart has been imprisoned since 2015 and his first release date is scheduled for 2043.

Last year, Smith State Prison reported the death of another employee, Correctional Officer Robert Clark, 42. Inmate Layton Lester allegedly attacked Clark from behind with a homemade weapon while injuring another inmate. Lester faces additional charges stemming from the attack in addition to his murder conviction.