Murder inquiry after inmate stabbed in prison

A prisoner was arrested after a 42-year-old inmate at HMP Dovegate was fatally stabbed

A murder inquiry has been launched after a prisoner was stabbed to death in a privately-run male prison.

Staffordshire Police said officers were called shortly after 09:00 BST on Saturday to HMP Dovegate near Uttoxeter, after the inmate was hurt.

The victim, a man in his 40s, was taken to hospital in a critical condition but died as a result of his injuries, the force said.

A 46-year-old inmate of the prison has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

A police spokesperson said: "He has been released on bail as we continue to investigate.

"Specially-trained officers are continuing to support the man’s family at this difficult time."

The prison, run by Serco, is a Category B facility with a population of 1,060 male inmates over the age of 21.

A Serco spokesman said: "We can confirm the death of a 42-year-old man at HMP Dovegate. The matter is now being investigated by the police."