Authorities in Tennessee have launched a multi‑state manhunt for Jacob Allen Morley, a convicted murderer who escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville on Sunday night. Prison staff discovered Morley missing around 11:30 p.m., and surveillance footage later showed him breaching the perimeter fence.
Escape and vehicle theft
At approximately 1 a.m. on Monday, surveillance video captured Morley stealing a white 2008 Ford F‑350 pickup truck from the 400 block of Keystone Drive, about two miles south of the prison. The vehicle, bearing Tennessee license plate 138BBQV, is marked with the name “Lindamood Planting Company” on its side.
Background on the fugitive
Morley was sentenced to life in prison after a 2025 conviction for the 2022 murder of Cody Birchfield. In addition to first‑degree murder, he was found guilty of burglary, vandalism, tampering with evidence and evading arrest. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation describes him as 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 240 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes, and advises the public to consider him dangerous.
Family concerns and public safety warnings
Diana Reid, a close childhood friend of Birchfield, expressed deep alarm about the escape. “He’s already been convicted of taking an innocent life. I believe he’s extremely dangerous and I’m genuinely concerned that someone else could end up hurt if he’s not caught soon,” Reid told Fox News Digital. She added that Morley “has absolutely nothing to lose at this point and someone could become a victim just so he can continue his path to wherever he’s headed.”
Reid also remembered Birchfield as “such a kind soul” with “the biggest heart,” emphasizing the loss felt by the community.
Law‑enforcement response
Federal and state agencies are assisting Tennessee officials in the search. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has urged residents in neighboring states to remain vigilant and to check any surveillance cameras for signs of the escaped inmate. Law‑enforcement officials have provided a tip line (844‑832‑3463) for anyone with information about Morley’s whereabouts.
Previous incidents
Morley’s criminal history includes a 2022 arrest after a police chase that crossed into North Carolina, during which Birchfield’s body was later discovered beneath Morley’s home. At his trial, Morley’s former girlfriend, Landree Sheperd, testified that he once admitted, “he f—ing killed him.”
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing that Morley remains on the state’s most‑wanted list and should be considered a serious threat to public safety.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
