MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #231 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff immediately through sunset on Thurs., June 27, 2024, in honor of Corey P. Proulx, a youth counselor for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (DOC), who was killed while on duty. Proulx passed away on June 25, 2024, at the age of 49.

“Our hearts break for Corey, his family and loved ones, his colleagues at the department, and all those who knew and loved him. By all accounts, Corey was a dedicated public servant who led with kindness and compassion in his commitment toward helping and supporting the youth he worked with,” said Gov. Evers. “Wisconsinites today are honoring Corey and his service as we mourn his tragic passing and keep Corey’s family and loved ones, colleagues, and all those who knew and served alongside him in our hearts and our prayers.”

Editor’s note: The following press release was issued by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections on June 26.

MADISON, Wis. – A Lincoln Hills School staff member died Tuesday night from injuries he sustained in an assault at the school Monday.

Corey Proulx, 49, had returned to serve as a youth counselor at Lincoln Hills [Copper Lakes] School last spring after briefly leaving the school two years prior.

“It is with tremendous sadness and regret that I announce the loss of a dedicated professional, colleague, and friend in the line of duty,” said Jared Hoy, Department of Corrections (DOC) secretary. “A career in corrections, with its dual mission to protect the public and guide individuals toward rehabilitation, can be demanding and requires so many sacrifices for our staff and our families, and Corey made the ultimate sacrifice. Our DOC family is mourning Corey’s loss, and we are keeping all of his family members and friends in our thoughts.”

Proulx’s fiancée and daughter shared with Secretary Hoy that they would like everyone to know that Corey was an amazing partner, father, son and human being. At this time, the family does not wish to comment further and asks for privacy as they grieve.

In a message to staff at Lincoln Hills School, Superintendent Klint Trevino wrote the following:

“Corey was a dedicated and compassionate member of our team, always striving to make a positive impact on the lives of the young individuals we serve. His commitment to our mission was unwavering, and he will be deeply missed by all of us.”

Secretary Hoy is at Lincoln Hills School today to support staff and has deployed Peer Supporters from across the agency to help staff process this tragic event.

Editor’s note: The following press release was issued by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections on June 25.

Two staff members injured at Lincoln Hills School

Two Lincoln Hills School staff members were injured when a 16-year-old youth attacked them around 8 p.m. Monday night.

One staff member was assaulted in the residence hall when the youth returned from outdoor recreation. The staff member was taken to an area hospital to receive medical treatment before being released.

The youth shortly thereafter encountered and assaulted a second staff member, causing the staff member to hit their head on the concrete. The staff member was taken to an area hospital to receive medical treatment and remains in critical condition at this time.

As with any assault incident at the school, the incident was referred to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department. Lincoln Hills School is currently operating normally though some youth were moved to a different residence hall due to the ongoing investigation.

Out of respect for the employees involved and their families, the department is unable to confirm the names of the employees at this time.

No other youth were involved in this isolated incident. The 16-year-old youth who was involved did not have any injuries requiring medical treatment. The department is working to move the youth to a suitable facility.

UPDATE 5:00 p.m. 6/26/24: WKOW reports “The teen who police say assaulted two staff members Monday at Lincoln Hills Copper Lake School, leaving one of them brain-dead, appeared in court Wednesday.

Javaris M. Hurd, 16, of Madison, is charged in the death of Corey P. Proulx, a youth counselor for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Proulx died Tuesday night at age 49. 

Hurd is facing one count of second-degree reckless homicide, one count of felony murder – battery with special circumstances and one count of battery by prisoners.

The criminal complaint shows Hurd’s current residence is a Madison address. 

The attack took place in the Krueger Living facility in the lower day room and courtyard area.

According to the criminal complaint, Hurd attacked one staff member, a woman, by throwing a liquid substance believed to be soap in her face and punching her in the face.

The complaint states Hurd then went outside into the courtyard where a second staff member, identified as Proulx, followed him. 

According to the complaint, Hurd maintained a fighting stance and punched Proulx in the face two times. There is video of the incident, which is referenced in the criminal complaint……

Hurd is charged as an adult even though he is 16. He’s being held in Lincoln County Jail on $100,000 cash bond and is to have no contact with either victim or their family members, their place of employment or education. He’s also not to have contact with any Lincoln Hills School staff.

If convicted on all counts, Hurd faces up to 52 years in prison and $120,000 in fines.”