Jackson, Tenn. – On the night of Oct. 25, 2026, Jacob Morley, a 28‑year‑old white male inmate, escaped custody at the Northwest Correctional Complex around 11:30 p.m. Morley is serving a life sentence for a first‑degree murder conviction in Carter County, along with aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, evading arrest and vandalism.
Details of the escape
According to the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC), Morley was being held in a secure housing unit when he managed to flee the facility. The exact method of his escape has not been disclosed, but TDOC officials confirmed that the prison’s response teams were immediately mobilized to locate the fugitive.
Public safety response
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has placed Morley on the state’s Most Wanted list and classified him as dangerous. A $2,500 reward is being offered for information that leads to his arrest. TDOC Public Information Officer Bradley Canada emphasized that public safety remains the top priority and urged residents not to attempt to apprehend the suspect themselves.
Anyone with tips about Morley’s whereabouts should contact the Tennessee Department of Correction at 1‑844‑832‑3463 or dial 911. The department stressed the importance of rapid reporting to aid law‑enforcement agencies in recapturing the escapee.
Background on Jacob Morley
Morley was sentenced to life imprisonment after a Carter County jury found him guilty of first‑degree murder. In addition to the murder conviction, he received consecutive sentences for aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, evading arrest and vandalism. Physical descriptions released by TDOC list him at 5‑foot‑11, approximately 240 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes.
Law‑enforcement coordination
TDOC is working closely with local police departments, the Tennessee Highway Patrol, and federal partners to track Morley’s movements. The collaborative effort includes issuing alerts to surrounding jurisdictions and monitoring known associates and locations where Morley may seek shelter.
Officials reminded the public that Morley is considered armed and dangerous. They also noted that the escape underscores the ongoing challenges faced by correctional facilities in maintaining secure environments for both staff and inmates.
What residents can do
Residents are asked to remain vigilant, especially in the Jackson area and surrounding counties. If you see a person matching Morley’s description, do not approach; instead, call 911 and provide as much detail as possible, such as the location, direction of travel, and any vehicles involved.
The TDOC will continue to release updates as the investigation progresses. Community members are thanked for their cooperation and urged to stay informed through official channels.
Original reporting: WAFF 48 Huntsville (news) — read the source article.
