Inmate Who Died After Reportedly Setting Himself on Fire Identified as Treon ‘Chucky’ George

The inmate who died after reportedly setting himself on fire inside a maximum-security cell at His Majesty’s Prison on Monday has been identified as 31-year-old Treon “Chucky” George.

George, who was known to have experienced mental health issues, died after a fire broke out inside the cell where he was being held shortly before 4 p.m.

Prison Superintendent Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather confirmed the incident to Antigua.news.

According to preliminary information, George was alone inside the cell when the fire started. Prison officials have not yet determined what was used to ignite the blaze or how he gained access to material capable of starting a fire.

Two inmates housed in nearby cells reportedly suffered smoke inhalation and were treated by emergency medical personnel. Neither was inside George’s cell when the fire started.

George had come to the attention of authorities as recently as August 15, 2026, when he was reportedly found sleeping inside a barbershop at the corner of Long and Thames streets in St John’s.

George also had a previous conviction for aggravated robbery and larceny stemming from an incident on January 5, 2023.

In that case, he entered Ceco Pharmacy and stole a money bag containing $80 in one-dollar coins along with another $20 from the cash register.

An on-duty security officer chased George to the East Bus Station, where George pulled a knife and demanded that the guard empty his pockets. Fearing for his safety, the security officer threw down his wallet containing US$100 and EC$55.

George was later apprehended and admitted to the pharmacy theft after being shown CCTV footage of the incident.

He subsequently pleaded guilty to aggravated robbery and larceny and was sentenced in the High Court to four years and eight months in prison, with time already spent on remand taken into account.

Authorities have launched an investigation into Monday’s fatal incident, including how George was able to obtain whatever was used to start the fire while being held in a maximum-security cell.

Reports that lights dimmed shortly before the blaze was discovered are also expected to form part of the investigation.

George’s known history of mental health challenges is also expected to bring renewed attention to the care, monitoring and supervision of inmates with mental health needs at His Majesty’s Prison.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death are continuing.