Dead inmate to be buried without postmortem, sources allege, while convict goes on the run from Prison Farm

Vurel Simon, an inmate who died at Her Majesty’s Prison on December 22, 2021, is to be buried as a COVID-19 victim – but without a post mortem having been done, police sources allege.

The sources tell REAL News that this goes against regulations, which stipulate that persons who die while incarcerated must be autopsied.

Further, the sources claim that family members are upset that the young man might very well be buried without the cause of his death being determined.

Reportedly, he was discovered dead in his cell and there was speculation, at the time, that he might have committed suicide or been electrocuted. A police investigation was begun and a post mortem was expected to follow.

Simon, who reportedly had mental challenges, had been remanded in connection with the death of Officer #500 Clifton Common, who was attacked at the St. John’s Police Station, where Simon was detained, on February 11, 2021.

Meanwhile, an inmate at Her Majesty’s Prison went on the run today, making his escape from the Prison Farm at around 12 midday, according to a statement from the Prison Administration.

The public is advised to be on the lookout for Shanell Thomas, who was last seen working on the institution’s farm at Diamonds Estate.

Thomas is described as being of medium build, approximately 190 pounds, 5 feet 7 inches tall, and fair in complexion. He is said to be serving time for a number of convictions and was scheduled to be released in November 2026.  

The Prison Administration is advising Thomas to turn himself in to the nearest Police station.  In the meantime, anyone with information on his whereabouts, or who may have seen him, should contact the nearest police station or Her Majesty’s Prison immediately.