Authorities have confirmed the capture of Jacob Allen Morley, a convicted murderer who escaped from a Tennessee prison. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reported that Morley was apprehended near Kansas City, Missouri, just over a week after his escape from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville.
Morley, 28, was convicted last year for the murder of his co-worker, Cody Birchfield, and had eluded capture since his escape on October 25, when he reportedly stole a truck. That vehicle was later discovered abandoned in Illinois, prompting a multi-state manhunt.
The escape was discovered when prison officials noticed Morley was missing around 11:30 p.m. on the day of his escape. Security footage revealed that he had breached a perimeter fence to make his getaway, leading authorities to classify him as dangerous and place him on the Tennessee Most Wanted list.
In a shocking twist, Morley was sentenced to life in prison following his conviction for killing Birchfield, whose body was found concealed under Morley’s residence. The motive for the murder remains unclear, though Morley had claimed self-defense during his trial, citing mental health issues.
Birchfield’s sister has publicly expressed her concerns about Morley, labeling him a “very dangerous man” and warning that he could pose a significant threat if armed. The investigation continues as authorities work to understand the full circumstances surrounding his escape and capture.
