Ricky Wassenaar Accused of Killing Three Child Sex Offenders in Arizona Prison

Ricky Wassenaar, an Arizona inmate already serving 16 life sentences, is accused of killing three fellow prisoners in a single morning at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Tucson. The victims were all convicted of serious sex crimes involving children or a minor.98

What Happened on April 4, 2025

On the morning of April 4, 2025, at the Cimarron Unit, Wassenaar allegedly first killed his cellmate, Saul Alvarez. Alvarez was serving time for the kidnapping, rape, and murder of a teenage girl. Reports say Wassenaar strangled and stabbed him, then arranged the body to look like he was sleeping.107

He then put a rock inside a fishnet laundry bag and headed to a common area where inmates were waiting for breakfast. There he attacked and killed Thorne Harnage and Donald Lashley. Both men had been convicted of sexual conduct with a minor and related child sex offenses. A fourth inmate was injured in the attack.99

Prison officials quickly identified Wassenaar as the sole suspect. He openly admitted to the killings afterward and expressed no remorse, saying he wished he had killed more child predators and claiming he “did society a favor.”104

Background and Charges

Wassenaar has a long and violent history in Arizona prisons. He was already locked up for life after a notorious 2004 prison escape attempt and hostage situation that left him with 16 consecutive life sentences.

Despite his detailed confessions, Wassenaar pleaded not guilty to three counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated assault when formally charged. In May 2026, Pinal County prosecutors announced they are seeking the death penalty.96

A Case That Raised Big Questions

The killings sparked immediate scrutiny of the Arizona Department of Corrections. Critics and reform advocates pointed to warning signs that had been raised about Wassenaar’s placement in a sex-offender unit and his history of violence. The department confirmed the three deaths and stated that Wassenaar acted with clear intent to harm the victims.98

The case continues to move through the courts. Wassenaar remains in custody while prosecutors pursue the maximum possible punishment.

Stories like this force hard conversations about prison safety, housing decisions for high-risk inmates, and the complex realities inside correctional facilities.

If this case left you with questions or strong opinions, subscribe to phactsblog.com for more deep dives into real stories that matter. Follow Phacts on Facebook and other social platforms so you never miss an update. We dig for the facts — join us.

• ShareCopied to clipboard