Hostage situation at prison in Licking, Mo., ends peacefully

LICKING, Mo. (KY3) - The Missouri Highway Patrol confirms a hostage situation inside the South Central Correctional Center in Licking ended after nearly five hours on Monday.

The incident happened within the prison, beginning around 8:30 a.m., according to MSHP. Investigators say the hostage, a member of the staff, was taken by an inmate in an office. The inmate let the hostage go after negotiations around 1 p.m. Then the inmate voluntarily left the office, where he was taken into custody around 1:15 p.m.

The patrol has not reported any injuries. Medical crews checked out the hostage.

“We are grateful to the Highway Patrol, the Licking Police Department, and the Texas County Sheriff’s Department for their prompt response to this situation,” said Karen Pojmann of the Missouri Department of Corrections. “Their professionalism and expertise helped bring about a quick resolution and protect the safety of our staff and residents.”

The Licking Police Department, Texas County Sheriff, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Texas County SRT assisted.

To report a correction or typo, please email digitalnews@ky3.com. Please include the article info in the subject line of the email.