Nearly 180 inmates evacuated from Colorado prison as Lee Fire grows

Nearly 180 inmates were being evacuated from a Colorado prison, officials announced Saturday evening, as the Lee Fire continues to advance south.

The Colorado Department of Corrections announced that 179 inmates were being evacuated from the Rifle Correctional Center in northwest Colorado.

The inmates were being transferred "to other secure facilities outside the fire-affected area," the agency said in a news release.

"Rifle Correctional Center staff have implemented the facility's emergency evacuation plan, ensuring the safe transfer of residents with enhanced security and strong coordination among partner agencies," the agency said.

Garfield County Sheriff's Office

There were no reports of injuries to inmates or staff, the CDOC said.

As of Saturday evening, the Lee Fire had bur