Haunting memories linger at New Mexico's old state penitentiary

Albuquerque, NMCrime

QUICK SUMMARY

A riot at the New Mexico State Penitentiary on February 2, 1980, resulted in the murder of 33 inmates and the assault of eight guards, leaving a haunting legacy. The prison, now vacant, is the subject of ghostly tales and unexplained phenomena, as former employee Shannon McReynolds leads visitors through the notorious Cell Block Four. Visitors report eerie experiences, including slamming doors and malfunctioning equipment, fueling speculation about lingering spirits.

On February 2, 1980, a violent riot at the New Mexico State Penitentiary resulted in the murder of 33 inmates and brutal assaults on eight guards. The prison now stands abandoned, sparking curiosity about whether the spirits of the victims linger within its walls. Former prison employee Shannon McReynolds led a recent tour of the infamous Cell Block Four, where many of the murders took place. Visitors encountered unsettling phenomena, including unexplained noises and malfunctioning audio recorders. McReynolds recounted harrowing tales of torture, including inmates being killed with blow torches. The eerie atmosphere of the prison has made it a focal point for ghost hunting and local folklore. The stories of the past resonate with New Mexicans, keeping the memory of the tragedy alive. As the site remains vacant, the haunting legacy of the 1980 riot continues to captivate and terrify.

RELATED TOPICS

Prison riotsGhost stories and hauntings

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