Manhunt for escaped Tennessee murder convict crosses state lines after the truck he stole is found abandoned in Illinois

Manhunt for Escaped Tennessee Murder Convict Spreads

Earthguardiansonline.com – The manhunt for escaped Tennessee murder convict Jacob Morley has expanded across state lines after a pickup truck authorities say he stole was found abandoned in Marion, Illinois. Morley, 28, escaped from the Northwest Correctional Complex in Tiptonville, Tennessee, late Sunday and remains at large.

Investigators found the white 2008 Ford F-350 with Tennessee license plates early Tuesday in Marion. Authorities said Morley allegedly took the truck in Lake County, Tennessee, early Monday after leaving the prison grounds.

The vehicle’s discovery establishes that it reached southern Illinois, but investigators have not said where Morley went after abandoning it. Law enforcement agencies in Tennessee and Illinois are coordinating as the search continues.

Escape Was Discovered Late Sunday

Prison staff discovered Morley was missing at about 11:30 p.m. Sunday. Security video later showed him climbing through the facility’s perimeter fence while wearing a prison uniform, authorities said.

Morley is serving a life sentence for first-degree murder. His convictions also include aggravated burglary, tampering with evidence, evading arrest and vandalism. He has been added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Most Wanted list.

A combined reward of $15,000 is being offered by the Tennessee Governor’s Office, the TBI and the U.S. Marshals Service for information leading to Morley’s arrest.

Marion Residents React to Abandoned Truck

The discovery of the truck has unsettled residents in Marion, a city of roughly 17,600 people. Some said they learned of the situation through social media and informal conversations rather than official alerts.

“It’s a scary time.”

Bridget Lawler, a local attorney, said people in the community were taking extra precautions at home, including checking doors and vehicles before going to bed.

“Everybody is locking their car doors now. I know my husband checked all of our doors before he went to bed.”

Resident Lachelle Hartline said she had not received an official alert and had not heard of others receiving one.

“No one that I have talked to has mentioned seeing it either. We only got information through Facebook.”

Authorities have not said that Morley is still in Marion. The recovered truck indicates he traveled through the area, but investigators are seeking information that could help determine his movements after it was left behind.

Victim’s Family Says Escape Reopens Pain

Morley was convicted in the death of Cody Birchfield, who was reported missing in February 2022. Birchfield’s body was found weeks later in a box beneath Morley’s home.

For Birchfield’s family, the escape has brought back grief and fears that had eased after Morley received a life sentence.

“A small sense of closure and the reassurance that justice had been served.”

A cousin of Birchfield’s, who requested anonymity because of safety concerns, said the family’s sense of security was shaken by news of the escape. Relatives are urging anyone with relevant information to contact investigators.

“Above all, we want Cody to be remembered not for the tragedy of his death, but for the warmth, kindness, and decency of his life.”

Another cousin said family members remain especially concerned for Birchfield’s father and sister, who live in the area connected to the case.

FAQ: What Marion Residents Should Know

Is the escaped convict believed to be in Marion? Authorities have not confirmed that Morley remains in Marion. The abandoned truck shows he was connected to the area, but his location after the vehicle was found is unknown.

What should residents do if they see someone they believe may be Morley? Do not approach or attempt to detain the person. Call 911 immediately and provide the location, direction of travel and any other useful details.

Why has the search crossed state lines? The manhunt for escaped Tennessee murder convict widened after the truck allegedly stolen in Tennessee was located in southern Illinois.

Is there a reward for information? Yes. Authorities are offering a combined $15,000 reward for information that leads to Morley’s arrest.