The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is mourning the death of a Kern Valley State Prison Officer, Armando Gallegos, 56, who died unexpectedly on Friday, September 14.

Gallegos worked at KVSP since 2005 after graduating from the Basic Correctional Officer Academy. He was at the prison until April 21, 2018 when he, along with a second officer, sustained injuries during an attack by inmates.

CDCR Secretary Ralph Diaz, expressed his condolences for the passing of Gallegos.

"Our hearts are heavy from the passing of Officer Armando Gallegos. Correctional officers like Armando put their lives on the line every day to keep our prisons and communities safe," Diaz said. "We extend our deepest condolences to his wife Irma, his family and friends, as well as our CDCR community, during this difficult time."

Kern Valley State Prison Warden Christian Pfeiffer made a statement as well.

“The Kern Valley State Prison family is deeply saddened by Armando’s sudden and unexpected death. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gallegos family and all who were fortunate enough to have known Armando. He will truly be missed,” Pfeiffer said.