Guy Greggory Griggs – The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has identified a man who died earlier this week at the William Donaldson Correctional Facility in Bessemer. The deceased has been named as 60-year-old Guy Greggory Griggs. Griggs, who was incarcerated at the facility, was pronounced dead at 1:16 p.m. on January 28, 2026.
According to officials, Griggs had sustained an injury on January 9 while at William Donaldson Correctional Facility. Following the incident, he was treated at a local hospital for a head injury, which authorities said resulted from an accidental fall at the prison. After his hospital treatment, Griggs was housed in the prison infirmary until his death.
At the time of his passing, Griggs was serving a life sentence for a 1996 capital murder conviction in Jefferson County. The Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services has been named as the primary agency investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and that further details may be released once it is complete.
The prison staff and coroner’s office confirmed that standard procedures were followed following the incident, including medical treatment and monitoring while Griggs was in the infirmary. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the injury or the events that led to it, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
William Donaldson Correctional Facility, located at 100 Warrior Lane in Bessemer, houses inmates serving long-term sentences, including life sentences. Officials emphasize that the safety and well-being of incarcerated individuals is a priority, and all incidents within the facility are reviewed thoroughly.
Griggs’ death has been noted by both prison officials and the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, who are coordinating with the Alabama Department of Corrections to ensure a comprehensive review of the circumstances. Investigators are reviewing medical records, incident reports, and witness statements as part of the inquiry.
The Alabama Department of Corrections reminded the public that investigations of this nature take time and are conducted to provide clarity about any incidents occurring within correctional facilities. Officials have requested patience while the investigation continues and have emphasized transparency once additional verified information is available.
Griggs’ death marks a significant event at William Donaldson Correctional Facility and highlights the importance of safety and medical care within correctional settings. Prison authorities continue to follow protocols designed to prevent injuries and respond promptly when incidents occur.
Community members and those following developments at the facility are encouraged to monitor official updates from the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office and the Alabama Department of Corrections for accurate and verified information. No further information regarding the cause or manner of death has been released at this time.
As the investigation continues, officials are focused on reviewing all relevant circumstances surrounding Griggs’ injury and subsequent death, with the goal of providing clear and factual findings once the review is complete.
