A 37-year-old attempted murder suspect orchestrated an elaborate escape from a North Carolina detention facility, triggering an extensive search operation.

According to ABC News, John Matthew Nigh broke free from Craven County Jail in New Bern by navigating through the building's ventilation system, with his cellmates actively participating in concealing his absence.

Law enforcement officials discovered Nigh's disappearance at 4 p.m. Sunday when detention officers conducted a routine check. His cellmates had strategically placed a mattress in his cell to create the illusion that he was sleeping, buying him crucial time to make his escape through a removed ceiling grating.

Complex Escape Plan Reveals Security Vulnerabilities

The escape operation demonstrated significant premeditation and coordination among the inmates. Nigh's cellmates provided essential assistance by helping him remove the ceiling grating, enabling access to a utility ceiling chase that eventually led to the roof through a ventilation housing unit.

Craven County Sheriff's Office has initiated steps to address the security breach that facilitated the escape. Officials are working closely with county maintenance personnel to identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities within the facility's infrastructure.

The sheriff's office has announced plans for a comprehensive internal investigation to establish a detailed timeline of events leading up to the escape. This review aims to identify any procedural gaps that may have contributed to the security breach.

Violent History Raises Public Safety Concerns

Nigh's criminal background includes several violent confrontations with law enforcement. His previous encounters with authorities have involved weapons, prompting officials to warn the public about his potentially dangerous nature.

In June 2024, Nigh faced arrest following a violent confrontation with law enforcement in Onslow County. During this incident, he allegedly fired multiple rounds at three deputies who were attempting to apprehend him on outstanding charges from Pamlico County.

The shooting incident led to multiple serious charges against Nigh, including three counts each of attempted first-degree murder and assault on law enforcement officers. Additional charges included possession of a firearm by a felon, highlighting his extensive criminal history.

Multi-Agency Search Operation Gains Momentum

The Craven County Sheriff's Office has enlisted support from multiple law enforcement agencies to expedite Nigh's capture. The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations and the U.S. Marshals Service's Fugitive Task Force have joined the manhunt.

According to the sheriff's office:

A search determined that the inmate, assisted by his two cellmates, had removed a ceiling grating, entered a utility ceiling chase and exited the roof through a ventilation housing. The cellmates concealed his escape by stuffing a mattress, making it appear that he was sleeping in his cell.

Local authorities have reported receiving credible information regarding Nigh's possible whereabouts. Investigation teams are actively pursuing these leads while maintaining surveillance across potential escape routes.

Physical Description and Identifying Features

Law enforcement has released detailed physical characteristics to aid in Nigh's identification. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 190 pounds, he has distinctive tattoos that make him easily recognizable.

Nigh's most noticeable identifying marks include a cross tattoo on his upper right arm and the initials "JMN" tattooed on his upper left arm. These unique markings could prove crucial in helping the public and law enforcement identify him.

Authorities have emphasized the importance of public vigilance while warning against direct engagement with the suspect. Given his history of armed confrontations with law enforcement, officials stress the need for caution.

Why This Story Matters

The escape of John Matthew Nigh is not just a dramatic story; it highlights the ongoing challenges and imperatives that jail systems face in maintaining security. It also underscores the broader implications for community safety, emphasizing the importance of robust law enforcement and community cooperation.

This story reaches beyond the immediate danger posed by an escaped inmate; it questions our approaches to correctional security and the integration of preventive measures in the justice system.

Next Steps in Investigation

The manhunt for John Matthew Nigh continues as law enforcement agencies coordinate their efforts across multiple jurisdictions. His escape from Craven County Jail through the ventilation system has exposed security vulnerabilities that require immediate attention.

The attempted murder suspect, who previously engaged in an armed confrontation with deputies in Onslow County, remains at large while multiple law enforcement agencies pursue active leads. The Craven County Sheriff's Office, working alongside state and federal authorities, maintains its commitment to both recapturing the escaped inmate and addressing the security issues that enabled his escape.