ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. -- A third employee of an North Carolina prison that was subject to an attempted escape earlier this month has now died.

Forty-nine-year-old Wendy Shannon began working as a correctional officer at Pasquotank Correctional Institution in 2013.

During the attempted escape, fires were set and two others, Correctional Officer Justin Smith and Correction Enterprises Manager Veronica Darden, died from injuries shortly after it happened. 

“Our hearts are broken at the passing of Officer Shannon. Our deepest condolences go out to the Shannon family during this difficult time," said Department of Public Safety Secretary Erik A. Hooks.

Governor Roy Cooper released the following statement about the incident: "I'm deeply saddened that this brutal attack has taken the life of Correctional Officer Wendy Shannon who was doing her job protecting the public. Our hearts go out to the victim, her family, friends and coworkers. Prisons and their employees help keep our communities safe, and I've directed state prison officials to take the necessary steps to improve prison safety."

Four inmates were charged with first-degree murder in connection with the incident and the prison is still on lockdown.