Authorities investigate inmate homicide in Jefferson City

Deputies from the Cole County Sheriff’s Department are investigating a homicide inside the Jefferson City Correctional Center Sunday afternoon. Inmates from a neighboring cell notified prison staff after hearing a violent disturbance around 5 p.m. in facilities 7 House.

One was man, Ryan A. Vaught, 23, was put in an isolated unit. Attempts to revive Daniel P. Skipper, 65, were unsuccessful.

Skipper had several wounds to his face and scalp and a piece of fabric wrapped around his neck. An autopsy is set for Tuesday, and the victim’s family has been notified.

Vaught was serving time for armed criminal action and assaulting a law enforcement officer. Skipper was sentenced for statutory rape and sodomy.