An inmate escaped from a North Carolina jail through a ventilation system on January 29, 2025. John Matthew Nigh, 37, was reported missing from the Craven County detention center at 4 p.m., with authorities stating he had assistance from his cellmates who concealed his absence.
- Inmate escaped through ventilation system
- Cellmates helped conceal escape with mattress
- John Matthew Nigh has a criminal history
- U.S. Marshals assisting in search efforts
- Nigh considered armed and dangerous
- Statewide alert issued for law enforcement
Nigh’s escape involved removing a grating to access a utility channel and exiting through the roof via ventilation housing. He is considered armed and dangerous due to previous charges that include attempted murder after allegedly firing at sheriff’s deputies in June 2024.
Key details about John Matthew Nigh include:
- Age: 37
- Previous convictions: Burglary
- Recent arrest: Attempted murder for shooting at deputies
The Craven County Sheriff’s Office reported that two of Nigh’s cellmates assisted him during the escape by making it look like he was sleeping in his cell. They stuffed a mattress to conceal his absence while he made his way into the ceiling chase above their cells.
The U.S. Marshals Service is actively searching for Nigh following the issuance of a statewide alert to law enforcement agencies. Authorities have not confirmed whether Nigh has legal representation available to comment on this situation.
This incident highlights significant security concerns within correctional facilities and raises questions about how such escapes can occur despite existing protocols.
