WAXAHACHIE, TX – The Ellis County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of one of its own following a tragic incident at the Wayne McCollum Detention Center. Isaiah Bass, a dedicated detention officer, was killed in the line of duty after being assaulted by an inmate on Monday afternoon.
Sheriff Brad Norman expressed the department’s deep sorrow, remembering Bass as a committed public servant who had been with the Sheriff’s Office for over six years. Bass, 28, was known for his dedication to community safety and had been involved with the department since his teenage years as part of their Explorer program.
The assault occurred around 3:45 p.m. when Bass was attacked by an inmate while performing his duties. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by medical personnel and emergency services, Bass was pronounced dead at a local hospital. The Texas Rangers are now leading an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, with full cooperation from the Sheriff’s Office.
The accused, Aaron Simeon Thompson, 45, has been charged with capital murder. Thompson, who was already incarcerated for multiple counts of assault on a public servant and evading charges, now faces a $2 million bond. Sheriff Norman described the attack as an act of “pure evil,” emphasizing the senselessness of the crime.
Bass’s journey with the Sheriff’s Office began at age 14 when he joined the Explorer program, designed to introduce young people to law enforcement careers. After completing college, Bass returned to the Sheriff’s Office in 2019, where he was admired by colleagues for his helpful nature and dedication to duty.
In the wake of this loss, the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office is providing mental health support to its staff, ensuring that both officers and inmates are safe. Sheriff Norman highlighted the importance of community and departmental support during this challenging time.
Thompson’s history of assault on public servants has raised questions about jail protocols. Sheriff Norman noted that Thompson was housed in a segregated area, allowed out of his cell for only one hour each day. The attack occurred as Bass was returning Thompson to his cell.
As the investigation continues, the District Attorney’s Office will decide whether to pursue the death penalty. Sheriff Norman has expressed his belief that the severity of the crime warrants such consideration.
The Sheriff’s Office is focusing on supporting Bass’s family, both his biological family and his extended family within the department. The community joins them in grieving the loss of a dedicated public servant whose life was tragically cut short.