Tennessee state authorities have initiated a manhunt for Jacob Allen Morley, a convicted murderer who escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville. The 28-year-old allegedly made his getaway shortly before being reported missing late Sunday night, prompting prison officials to review security footage that confirmed he had breached the perimeter fence while wearing his Department of Correction uniform.
In a dramatic turn of events, Morley is suspected of stealing a white Ford F-350 flatbed truck shortly after his escape, with the theft occurring around 1 a.m. Monday. Local residents are being urged to check their security cameras for any potential sightings of Morley or the stolen vehicle. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has since placed him on its most-wanted list.
Morley is notorious for having fatally shot his coworker, Cody Birchfield, in 2022. His body was later discovered concealed under Morley’s residence, leading to his conviction in February 2025 for murder, abuse of a corpse, and tampering with evidence, among other charges. He was sentenced to life in prison.
Authorities described Morley as standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing approximately 240 pounds. A reward of up to $2,500 is being offered for information that leads to his capture, and anyone who spots him is instructed to contact the authorities immediately by calling 911 or the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Photo credit: Ariel Cobbert
