Manhunt Underway for Escaped Convicted Murderer in Tennessee

A search is ongoing for Jacob Morley, a convicted murderer who escaped from a prison in northwest Tennessee by reportedly slipping through a fence and stealing a truck. Morley, 28, was serving a life sentence for killing a co-worker, Cody Birchfield, in 2022. Authorities discovered Morley missing from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Tennessee Department of Correction.

Security footage revealed Morley escaped wearing his prison uniform. However, officials have yet to disclose details on how he got through the fence. Law enforcement has been scouring the area, including buildings and structures near the prison situated about 90 miles north of Memphis in a secluded rural locality adjacent to the Mississippi River.

Prison authorities have announced a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to Morley’s arrest. Morley is described as being 5-foot-11, weighing 240 pounds, with brown hair and green eyes.

Morley’s criminal record includes first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, vandalism, and evading arrest. Authorities noted that Morley led deputies on a chase into North Carolina upon encountering them at his home in 2022.

This situation is evolving, and updates will be provided.

This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.