A fire late last night in the Oregon County jail, in extreme southern Missouri, has killed one inmate and seriously injured three others. No cause has been determined.

State Highway Patrol Sergeant Marty Elmore says six inmates were being held in the jail when the fire broke out. All were removed and taken for treatment. One died. Three have been hospitalized in serious condition in Springfield. Two were treated and released. The identities of the inmates have not been released.

One firefighter was injured as well. Elmore says the firefighter was taken to the Ozarks Medical Center in West Plains, treated and released.

Damage to the jail located in Alton is not believed to be extensive, mainly water damage from fighting the fire. The investigation into the fire continues. 

Download/listen SHP Sgt. Marty Elmore (:20 MP3)