GOUVERNEUR, NY — New York State Police are investigating a homicide at Gouverneur Correctional Facility on Scotch Settlement Road.
Correction officers discovered Shaun Bennett, 45, lying on the floor of his cell during routine rounds at approximately 8:30 a.m. on April 10, 2026.
Bennett was unable to move and was transported to the facility infirmary, where he became unresponsive.
Officers and medical staff administered lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful.
The St. Lawrence County Coroner responded to the scene and pronounced Bennett deceased.
Investigators determined a physical altercation had occurred between Bennett and his cellmate, Savon O’Neal, 32.
O’Neal was transported to SUNY Upstate Medical University for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
An autopsy was conducted at Glens Falls Hospital by forensic pathologist Dr. Michael S. Sikirica.
The cause of death was determined to be cardiorespiratory arrest due to a closed head injury, and the manner of death was ruled a homicide.
The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office and the New York State Attorney General’s Office are assisting with the investigation.
Charges are pending.
