A convicted murderer serving life behind bars has breached security at a Tennessee state prison and remains at large, prompting a massive manhunt involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies across the region.
Dangerous Escape From Maximum Security
Jacob Morley, 28, escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex on October 25, 2026, just before midnight. Prison staff discovered Morley missing at approximately 11:30 p.m., immediately triggering an emergency lockdown and facility-wide search. Security footage confirmed the convicted killer climbed over the perimeter fence while still wearing his Department of Correction uniform, vanishing into the surrounding area under cover of darkness.
The Tennessee Department of Correction has mobilized extensive resources to recapture Morley, working alongside the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee Highway Patrol aviation units, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities have systematically cleared buildings and structures near the prison facility, expanding their search parameters as the manhunt continues.
Jacob Allen Morley, 28, was serving a LIFE sentence for first-degree murder when he escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tennessee on October 25, 2026.
Morley was also convicted of aggravated
Stolen Vehicle Linked to Fugitive
Investigators obtained crucial surveillance footage showing Morley stealing a white 2008 Ford F-350 pickup truck around 1:00 a.m. Monday morning from Keystone Drive. The vehicle bears Tennessee license plate 138BBQV and displays distinctive markings for Lindamood Planting Company along its sides. An air compressor mounted in the truck bed provides another identifying feature. Authorities believe Morley remains mobile and potentially dangerous to anyone who encounters him.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has placed Morley on the state’s Most Wanted list, offering a reward up to $2,500 for information leading to his capture. Standing 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 240 pounds with green eyes and brown hair, Morley could be anywhere within hundreds of miles of the prison facility by now.
Violent Criminal History Raises Alarm
Morley was convicted in Carter County for first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, evidence tampering, evading arrest, and vandalism. His victim’s body was discovered buried beneath Morley’s residence in March 2022. The judge sentenced him to life imprisonment, but now this violent offender walks free among unsuspecting Tennessee families.
Sheriff Bryan Avery issued a stern warning to area residents: remain vigilant and exercise extreme caution. Anyone spotting Morley should immediately dial 911 without attempting contact or confrontation. Law enforcement urges citizens to review home security cameras, doorbell footage, hunting cameras, and surveillance systems for potential sightings. Tips can be reported to the Tennessee Department of Correction at 1-844-832-3463 or emergency services at 911.