The World - News from July 21, 1988

At least 10 people were killed and 15 injured before a riot at a Michoacan state penitentiary was brought under control, Mexican government officials said. Other reports put the toll at up to 14 dead. A preliminary report by the state government described the violence at the prison in the state capital of Morelia as “an attempt at a mass breakout.” Details were sketchy, but one local newspaper editor said prisoners destroyed virtually all files of pending court cases during the one-hour shoot-out. Six courtrooms are attached to the prison.