On April 10, 2026, at approximately 8:30 a.m., the New York State Police were informed of a possible homicide at Gouverneur Correctional Facility, located on Scotch Settlement Road in Gouverneur.
A preliminary investigation determined that correction officers were conducting routine rounds when they discovered an incarcerated man lying on the floor in his cell. The individual was identified as Shaun Bennett, age 45. 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.
Further investigation revealed that a physical altercation had occurred between Bennett and his cellmate, Savon O’Neal, age 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 for Shaun Bennett 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.
This remains an ongoing investigation, and charges are pending.
