TIFS Investigates: Man who escaped from Leflore County ODOC facility in 1977 gone with the wind
- Dennis McCaslin
- Feb 12
- 2 min read


The excitement around the escape (and eventual recapture) by the two Oklahoma Department of Corrections inmates from the state facility in Leflore County overfw days the past few days is really much ado about nothing when you consider the fact that one man has been on the run for over five decades from the same prison.
Donald D. Morris, who was 37-years-old when he made his run to freedom , has been on the lam since July 2, 1977, after escaping from the Jim E. Hamilton Correctional Facility in Hogden.
Morris, who was serving a ten-year sentence for burglary, has managed to evade capture for nearly five decades.
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Standing at 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing between 135 and 140 pounds, Morris had black hair and brown eyes. His last known clothing at the time of his disappearance was unknown.
Some believe Morris may have assumed a new identity and is living a quiet life under a different name2. This theory suggests he could be residing in a different state or even country, avoiding detection.
Another theory is that Morris had help from someone on the inside, possibly a prison guard or someone with connections, who facilitated his escape and helped him stay hidden.
: Given Morris's criminal history, it's possible he could have joined or formed a criminal organization that provided him with protection and resources to remain off the grid.
Some speculate that Morris may have died shortly after his escape, either from natural causes or during a confrontation. However, there has been no concrete evidence to support this theory.
Morris might be living in isolation, avoiding contact with others to stay under the radar. This theory suggests he could be living in a remote area, making it difficult for authorities to locate him. Of course, the possibility that he fled the country has also aways been a consideration.
The Oklahoma Department of Corrections continues to actively investigate his case and is seeking any information that could lead to his capture.
Morris's criminal history includes three bank robberies, numerous car thefts, and home break-ins. Despite the passage of time, authorities remain determined to bring him to justice and ensure he faces the consequences of his actions
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If you have any information regarding Donald D. Morris's whereabouts, please contact the Oklahoma Department of Corrections at (405) 203-8121 or the fugitive hotline at 425-2500.
