An inmate described as 'dangerous' is currently on the run after a daring escape from the Craven County Jail in North Carolina. John Nigh, a White male standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, managed to flee the facility with the assistance of his cellmates on Sunday afternoon.
Authorities have revealed that Nigh has a troubling history of attempting to evade law enforcement. In a previous incident in June 2024, he fired two rounds from a small-caliber handgun at three deputies from the Onslow County Sheriff's Office while trying to avoid arrest.
The escape from the Craven County Jail involved Nigh and his cellmates removing a ceiling grating, entering a utility ceiling chase, and exiting through a ventilation housing on the roof. The cellmates went to great lengths to conceal Nigh's absence by stuffing a mattress to make it appear as though he was still in his cell.
Nigh, who has been known to be armed during encounters with law enforcement, is now the subject of a widespread manhunt led by the Craven County Sheriff's Office, the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force, and other agencies.
His criminal record includes charges such as Breaking and Entering a Motor Vehicle, Felony Larceny, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, drug possession, resisting an officer, and assault on an officer involving fentanyl exposure. Nigh has also been accused of causing property damage at the CarolinaEast Medical Center.
Law enforcement officials caution the public to consider Nigh as dangerous due to his past behavior and armed confrontations with officers. He has distinctive tattoos with the letters 'JMN' on his upper left arm and a cross on his upper right arm.
The authorities are urging anyone with information on Nigh's whereabouts to come forward and assist in his apprehension to ensure the safety of the community.
