The exact cause of death remains unknown as state authorities investigate the sudden death of 35-year-old Reginald Steed, an inmate who was awaiting trial for the brutal slaying of a Morgan County correctional officer.

The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) announced that Steed was found and pronounced dead at 12:40 a.m. at the Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville. TDOC officials have not yet released details regarding how or why Steed died, and an internal investigation is currently underway.

The Murder of Officer Dustin Pedigo

At the time of his death, Steed was being held on first-degree murder charges for the killing of Correctional Officer Dustin Pedigo.

The fatal attack occurred on February 24, at the Morgan County Correctional Complex. According to investigators, Pedigo was conducting solo nighttime security rounds when Steed managed to exit his cell and ambush him. An autopsy later revealed that Pedigo had been stabbed multiple times in the neck.

Morgan County District Attorney General Russell Johnson had subsequently filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Steed, noting that the murder was committed by an inmate already serving a 27-year sentence for aggravated assault, especially aggravated robbery, and attempted voluntary manslaughter.

Systemic Security Concerns Raised

Pedigo’s tragic death ignited severe scrutiny regarding safety protocols and structural integrity within Tennessee correctional facilities.

State lawmakers and local officials, including State Senator Ken Yager, pointed out that the fatal attack could have potentially been prevented. Investigations and staff reports revealed that inmates at the Morgan County facility could easily manipulate and bypass cell door locks using everyday objects like pieces of paper, and staff requests for physical padlocks on doors had gone unanswered.

Next Steps in the Investigation

With Steed’s passing, the anticipated capital murder trial will not move forward, closing a turbulent chapter for a case that deeply shook Tennessee’s correctional community. TDOC officials stated that further information regarding Steed’s cause of death will be made public pending the conclusion of the ongoing medical examiner’s findings and state investigation.