Life-Sentence Murder Convict Jacob Morley Escapes Tennessee Prison, Manhunt Under Way

Jacob Morley, 28, a murder convict serving a life sentence, has escaped from a prison in the US state of Tennessee. The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) announced the escape on Monday.

Morley escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex, the agency said.

At approximately 11:30pm on October 25, 2026, staff at the facility confirmed Morley was unaccounted for and immediately conducted an emergency count and a search of the facility, the agency said.

Officials said security cameras confirmed Morley breached the perimeter fence and exited the facility in his TDOC uniform.

In a statement, TDOC said it is committed to protecting public safety and asked the community to immediately contact law enforcement with any sightings or information. The agency said it is working with local, state and federal law enforcement to apprehend Morley.

According to the agency, Morley was serving a life sentence for a conviction in Carter County, Tennessee, for crimes including first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, evading arrest and vandalism.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) announced on Monday that Morley was added to the state's Most Wanted list, and offered a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to his arrest. TBI said Morley should be considered dangerous.

A TDOC wanted poster describes Morley as 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing 240 pounds, with green eyes and brown hair. Anyone with information on his whereabouts should contact the Tennessee Department of Correction at 1-844-832-3463 or call 911, the poster said.

Sheriff Bryan Avery of the Lake County Sheriff's Office, where the prison is located, asked the public to remain vigilant and exercise caution. In a statement on Monday, he said anyone who encounters or believes they have spotted Morley should not approach, confront or attempt to apprehend him, but should immediately dial 911.

The Northwest Correctional Complex, located in Tiptonville, Tennessee, has the operating capacity to house 1,776 male inmates with custody levels ranging from minimum to close, according to TDOC.

According to ABC News Tennessee affiliate WJHL, Morley was found guilty of murder in 2022. He was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of a previously missing man whose body was discovered buried underneath Morley's home in March 2022, WJHL reported.