*BREAKING* Inmate Escapes From Nelsonville Prison; Hocking College Closed

Ohio prison officials said an inmate convicted of killing a woman in Cleveland has been reported missing from a Southeast Ohio prison.

The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction on Monday confirmed the possible escape of John Modie, 58, from the Hocking unit of the Southeastern Correctional complex in Nelsonville. The department said Modie was found to be missing during the 11:00 p.m. count of inmates Sunday night.

Ohio prison officials said they are searching the facility and working with local law enforcement authorities and the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

The Correction Department said Modie was convicted of murder in the Cleveland slaying in 2003 and is serving a sentence of 15 years to life for that conviction. Prison officials said Modie also was convicted of robbery and escape.

As a result, Hocking College Main Campus in Nelsonville is closed Monday. School officials are asking residents to stay indoors and be on high alert.

According to the school’s website, school officials are asking residents to report any suspicious activity to HCPD at (740) 753-6598.

We’ll bring you more on this developing story as we have it.