An inmate’s daring escape from a North Carolina jail has set off a widespread manhunt that has captured the attention of law enforcement and residents alike. On Sunday afternoon, just as the weekend wrapped up, John Matthew Nigh, a 30-year-old man held on multiple serious charges, disappeared from his cell at the Craven County Detention Center. The absence was noticed around 4 p.m. EDT, and what followed was a frantic search for the escapee who, authorities believe, cleverly maneuvered his way through the jail’s ventilation system.
- Inmate John Matthew Nigh escaped from jail.
- Nigh faced multiple charges, including attempted murder.
- Escape happened via the jail's ventilation system.
- Cellmates aided Nigh in the escape plan.
- Authorities issued a statewide manhunt for Nigh.
- Nigh is considered dangerous and armed.
Nigh’s past is fraught with troubling incidents. He was arrested the previous summer after allegedly attempting to murder deputies by shooting at them during a standoff. Fortunately, no officers were injured in that encounter, which culminated in Nigh being transported to a medical facility for minor injuries before being transferred to the Onslow County Detention Center, where he was held on a substantial $5 million bond. The move to Craven County’s facility occurred in December, about 50 miles from his previous location.
According to officials from the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, Nigh’s alleged escape plan was sophisticated and involved assistance from his cellmates. They reportedly helped him remove the grating from the ceiling, allowing him access to the ventilation system. To further deceive prison guards, they stuffed his mattress to make it look as though he was asleep in his cell. This level of coordination indicates a well-thought-out plan, raising questions about security protocols at the facility.
As the manhunt began, Craven County authorities issued an urgent BOLO (be on the lookout) alert statewide, engaging local law enforcement and encouraging community members to remain vigilant. “Nigh has been armed in past encounters with law enforcement officers and should be considered dangerous,” stated the sheriff’s office in a public announcement. They urged anyone with information about Nigh’s whereabouts to contact the authorities immediately.
Nigh is described as a white male, standing 6 feet 2 inches tall, with distinctive tattoos on his arms, including his initials, “JMN,” and a cross. This information serves as a crucial visual aid for those in the community who may spot him. The urgency of the situation is compounded by the potential risks posed by Nigh, given his history of violence.
On the investigative front, authorities are now employing various forensic and legal methods to track down the escapee. They are combing through surveillance footage, conducting interviews, and mobilizing search teams. The Craven County Investigations Bureau and Special Investigations Bureau are leading the charge, alongside local law enforcement, who are pooling their resources in hopes of quickly capturing Nigh.
As the manhunt progresses, the community is left on edge, pondering the implications of such an escape. This incident not only raises concerns about prison security but also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in monitoring and restraining individuals who have previously exhibited violent behavior.
In the days to come, as the search intensifies, the spotlight will remain on the Craven County Sheriff’s Office and their efforts to bring John Matthew Nigh back into custody. The details of how he managed to evade law enforcement remain a crucial part of the ongoing investigation, and authorities remain hopeful that public tips will lead them to his location. The unfolding situation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in the justice system and the unpredictable nature of those who operate outside its bounds.
