Tennessee fugitive Jacob Morley evades capture as multi-state search expands
The convicted murderer escaped a Lake County prison on Monday, stole a work truck, and was last seen in Marion, Illinois.
By Zoe Harrison ·
Jacob Allen Morley remains at large two days after escaping from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Lake County, Tennessee. The 39-year-old fugitive is serving a life sentence for the 2022 murder of Cody Birchfield in Carter County.
Morley fled early Monday morning by stealing a white Ford truck with a flatbed marked Lindamood Planting Company. The vehicle was found abandoned in Marion, Illinois. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation initially reported his last confirmed location as Tuesday morning but corrected the timeline to Monday morning. Authorities state his current whereabouts are unknown.
A joint manhunt is underway involving the TBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and local, state, and federal partners. The total reward for information leading to his capture has increased to $17,500. This amount combines a $7,500 offer from the Tennessee Governor’s Office, a $5,000 reward from the TBI, and a $5,000 contribution from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Authorities in Dane County, Wisconsin, are investigating an armed robbery at the Bank of Deerfield. A gunman entered the bank, restrained two employees, and took cash before fleeing in a Lincoln MKZ. The car was later found empty in the area. The TBI is aware of the incident but has not confirmed a link to Morley.
Morley was convicted of first-degree murder, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and aggravated burglary in connection with the death of Birchfield. He is considered dangerous and eligible for parole.
The TBI urges residents in Tennessee and surrounding states to check vacation homes, lake houses, hunting cabins, sheds, barns, garages, and other outbuildings for signs of an intruder. The agency also recommends that people check on elderly relatives and neighbors who may be vulnerable.
Officials advise that anyone who spots Morley should not approach him. Witnesses should call 911 immediately. Those with information can contact the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND.
