L.D. Barkley, a leader of the revolt, delineated the prisoners’ humanity stating, 'We are men, we are not beasts, and we do not intend to be beaten or driven as such.' The protest emphasized the need for humane treatment, amidst volatile conditions following a guard's death.
On the morning of September 13, the D yard prisoners heard a helicopter, which released tear gas. The ensuing gunfire resulted in horrifying casualties, with state troopers firing nearly 400 shots, killing 39 individuals, including both prisoners and staff.
Surviving prisoners were stripped and subjected to degrading treatment in A yard. They faced physical abuse, forced to endure a 'gauntlet' where they were beaten and faced racial slurs amid a desperate and humiliating situation.
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