A week-long manhunt for a convicted murderer who escaped a Tennessee prison ended Tuesday after authorities recaptured Jacob Allen Morley, 28, near Kansas City, Missouri.
Morley was found in Missouri after seven days on the run, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). He was taken into custody by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, with assistance from multiple law enforcement agencies.
Tennessee officials confirmed Morley’s recapture in a statement, thanking the public and partner agencies for their assistance. The TBI noted that automated license plate readers and coordinated efforts between state and local authorities contributed to his capture.
How the Escape and Capture Unfolded
Morley escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee, on October 25, when prison officials discovered he was missing around 11:30 p.m. Surveillance footage later showed him breaching a perimeter fence while wearing his prison uniform.
Authorities later reviewed security video that appeared to show Morley stealing a white 2008 Ford F-350 pickup truck from a farm approximately two miles from the prison. The truck, bearing the name Lindamood Planting Company on its side, was later found abandoned in Marion, Illinois, about 120 miles north of the prison.
Law enforcement agencies expanded the search beyond the prison grounds, including nearby buildings and structures. The FBI and Tennessee Highway Patrol were among the agencies involved in the multi-state manhunt.
On November 5, Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed Morley’s arrest near Norbone, Missouri, roughly an hour’s drive from Kansas City. The TBI stated that Morley was added to the Tennessee Most Wanted list and was considered armed and dangerous during the search.
Background: The Crime and Conviction
Morley was serving a life sentence for the 2022 murder of his coworker, Cody Birchfield, 34, in Carter County, Tennessee. Birchfield’s body was discovered buried under Morley’s home in March 2022, months after he went missing.
In 2025, Morley was convicted of first-degree murder, aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, vandalism, and evading arrest. Birchfield’s sister, Carrie Norman, previously told NBC News that Morley was a dangerous individual who could harm others if given the opportunity.
Authorities have not disclosed how Morley breached the prison’s security fence or how the escape went undetected for several hours. The TBI stated that further details would be released as the investigation progresses.
Law Enforcement Response and Public Assistance
The Tennessee Department of Correction and the TBI issued public statements thanking law enforcement partners and the community for their assistance. A $17,500 reward had been offered for information leading to Morley’s capture.
Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that Flock camera footage and automated license plate readers played a role in locating Morley as he traveled through the state. The arrest occurred without incident, according to authorities.
This remains a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.