Two deaths at privately-run prison within 15 days

An investigation is under way after a second inmate died at a prison in the space of 15 days.

The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman said Reece Pryce, 23, died at HMP Five Wells near Wellingborough on 25 December.

There were no further details available about how Pryce died at the category C prison - which is run by security firm G4S - but his death was not thought to be suspicious.

Kevin Golby, 49, died suddenly on 10 December, prompting a murder investigation.

Northamptonshire Police said it was called to HMP Five Wells at about 14:15 GMT on Christmas Day following a medical emergency.

The force said: "Officers attended as part of standard procedure regarding deaths in state custody.

"A post-mortem was carried out which did not establish the cause of death, and further toxicology tests are under way.

"The death is not currently being treated as suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner."

The Northamptonshire Telegraph reported that Pryce was thought to be from Suffolk.

In a statement G4S said: "Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

"As with all deaths in custody, this will be investigated by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman and the cause of death is for the coroner to determine."

HMP Five Wells opened in 2022 and houses about 1,700 inmates.

A report published last month - prior to the deaths of the two prisoners - found "evidence of progress" at the jail despite an increase in the recorded rate of self-harm among inmates.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.