Homicide investigation underway after one inmate died at Kern Valley State Prison

DELANO, Calif. (KFSN) -- State Officials are investigating the death of an inmate at Kern Valley State Prison as a homicide.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation say two inmates, Jovanny Mendez and Sergio Villalobos, had an altercation in their cell Saturday morning.

Staff gave the two inmates orders, but Mendez failed to comply which resulted to staff having to pepper spray him.

Villalobos was then taken to the prison's triage and treatment area, where he later died.

Two weapons were later found.

Mandez has currently been moved to restricted housing.