Correctional Officer Richard Wright died as the result of complications after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates at the Women's Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in Vandalia.

Officer Wright had served with the Missouri Department of Corrections for 15 years. He had previously served with the Audrain County Sheriff's Office and retired as a Lieutenant from the Little Dixie Fire Protection District for 20 years. Officer Wright is survived by his wife, daughter, son and three grandchildren. Interment: East Lawn Memorial Park.