Escaped Tennessee Killer Jacob Allen Morley Captured After More Than a Week on the Run in Multi-State Manhunt

A convicted murderer who escaped from a Tennessee prison and triggered a massive multi-state manhunt has finally been captured after more than a week on the run.

Jacob Allen Morley, 28, was taken into custody near Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday, November 3, bringing an end to an extensive search involving law enforcement agencies across several states.

Morley had escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee, on October 25. Prison officials discovered he was missing at approximately 11:30 p.m. and immediately launched an emergency search.

Security footage later revealed that Morley had breached the prison’s perimeter fence and made his way outside while still wearing his prison uniform. Investigators have not publicly explained exactly how he managed to get through the facility’s security barriers.

Authorities subsequently released surveillance footage showing Morley allegedly stealing a white 2008 Ford F-350 pickup truck belonging to Lindamood Planting Company. The vehicle was reportedly taken from a property near the prison before being discovered abandoned in Marion, Illinois.

Despite finding the truck, investigators initially had no confirmed information about Morley’s whereabouts. The search eventually expanded across state lines as authorities warned the public that he should be considered dangerous.

The breakthrough came on November 3, when investigators received information suggesting Morley was traveling west through Missouri. Automated license plate recognition cameras and undercover officers helped authorities locate the vehicle he was driving.

A police helicopter subsequently followed the truck into Carroll County, where Morley reportedly drove off the roadway and became stuck in mud. A Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper then approached and arrested him without incident.

Officers recovered two rifles and a shotgun from the vehicle, according to authorities. Investigators also believe Morley had stolen the truck and firearms from a farm in Illinois.

Morley had been serving a life sentence for the 2022 murder of his former coworker, 34-year-old Cody Birchfield.

Birchfield disappeared in February 2022, prompting an investigation by authorities in Carter County, Tennessee. His remains were eventually discovered inside a metal box hidden beneath Morley’s residence.

Morley was convicted of first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, vandalism and evading arrest. His conviction resulted in a life sentence.

His escape sparked serious concerns among law enforcement officials and members of Birchfield’s family, who feared the convicted killer could pose a danger while outside prison.

Following his capture, authorities thanked the agencies and members of the public who assisted with the search. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his escape and movements during his time outside prison remains an important part of the case.

After days of uncertainty and an extensive search spanning multiple states, Morley is once again in police custody.

Source: DAILYMAIL