Kentucky State Police Investigates Death at Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex

WEST LIBERTY, Ky. (January, 5, 2026) –Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 8 Morehead was contacted by the Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex (EKCC) on Sunday, January 4 at 6:25 p.m. EDT to investigate an assault that occurred between two inmates.

KSP troopers and detectives responded to EKCC after correctional officers located Marcus D. Gray, a 49-year-old male from Corbin, Ky., unresponsive in his cell. Lifesaving measures were provided to Mr. Gray while awaiting arrival of Morgan County EMS. Mr. Gray was transported to Morgan County ARH Hospital then flown to the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington, Ky., where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The preliminary investigation reveals that Mr. Gray had been assaulted by John D. Thomas, a 32-year-old male from Burlington, Ky.  Criminal charges have not been filed at the time of this release. The case will be presented to the Morgan County Grand Jury at their next meeting.

The ongoing investigation is being conducted by Trooper Wes Montgomery. KSP was assisted on scene by the Morgan County Ambulance Service. 

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