Man killed in Ely prison was serving life sentence for brother-in-law’s death

One of two brothers who are serving life sentences at Ely State Prison for slaying their brother-in-law was stabbed to death last week.

Ronnie Brass, 31, was found about 3:15 p.m. Thursday at the foot of a staircase near a common area for prisoners, state authorities said. Brass died from a stab wound of his chest, according to the Clark County coroner's office.

No arrests were made as of Tuesday. The homicide is being investigated by the White Pine County sheriff's office and the inspector general's office of the Nevada Department of Corrections.

Brass, with his brother, Jermaine Brass, 27, was convicted in 2010 of first-degree murder, kidnapping and conspiracy for the Jan. 9, 2009, fatal shooting of Ernest Mitchell.

Prosecutors said that the two brothers shot Mitchell, 39, while he was standing in the doorway of his house, in the 5500 block of Reiter Avenue, near Smoke Ranch Road and Jones Boulevard.

The shooting occurred after Mitchell accused the brothers of stealing tires and rims from his home.

Authorities said the brothers arrived at Mitchell's home to confront him over the burglary accusations, and while Mitchell was arguing with Ronnie Brass, Jermaine Brass rounded a corner and shot Mitchell at least nine times, including three execution-style shots.

Authorities said the argument with Ronnie Brass was meant to lure Mitchell out of his home so that Jermaine Brass could shoot him.

Prosecutors said Jermaine Brass masterminded the plan and had help from his brother, who had a low IQ.

Mitchell's wife, Katrina Brass, testified against her brothers at the trial.

Contact reporter Francis McCabe at fmccabe@reviewjournal.com or 702-380-1039.