Corrections Officer Rhonda Russell was shot and killed after a struggle with an inmate at the holding area of the Central Court building. A male inmate attacked and disarmed Officer Russell while waiting for a court hearing. An officer who was in the court building saw the altercation between Officer Russell and the inmate. The inmate had restrained Officer Russell, shots were fired at the suspect, but inadvertently struck Officer Russell. She was transported to the hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.

Officer Rhonda Russell had served 16 years with the Blair County Prison.