A tragic and deeply disturbing case has unfolded in Tennessee, where a man recently released from prison is now the main suspect in the brutal killings of four people — all believed to be part of the same family. Authorities say the man knew the victims personally and is now on the run.
Who Is the Suspect?
The suspect, Austin Drummond, 28, is wanted on multiple serious charges including:
Four counts of first-degree murder
Aggravated kidnapping
Being a felon in possession of a firearm
Possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony
Drummond is accused of killing James M. Wilson (21), Adrianna Williams (20), Cortney Rose (38), and Braydon Williams (a teenager). All were found dead on Tuesday in Lake County, along Carrington Road in Tiptonville, Tennessee.
Baby Left Behind and Clue Leads to Bodies
The investigation started when a 7-month-old baby girl, reportedly the daughter of Wilson and Adrianna Williams, was found abandoned in a stranger’s front yard in a car seat around 3:10 p.m. on Tuesday. The baby was unharmed but left alone.
According to officials, a dark-colored minivan or a white mid-size SUV was seen dropping off the infant. That discovery helped police track down the identities of the parents, which ultimately led to the grim discovery of the four bodies later that day.
Drummond Had Prior Criminal History
Court documents show Drummond has a lengthy criminal record. In 2015, he was sentenced to 10 years for armed robbery, after stealing $44 from a Circle K convenience store. The robbery involved a gun, and witnesses said he threatened the clerk while demanding cash. The reason he gave for the robbery: “I got the munchies.”
Other past charges include vandalism and retaliation for past action, which refers to threatening or harming someone who was involved in previous legal actions against him.
Drummond had posted on Facebook last September that he had been released from prison, and the same Facebook account appeared to be connected to at least one of the victims. This further supports law enforcement’s claim that Drummond knew the victims personally.
Manhunt Underway
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has added Drummond to the state’s Most Wanted list. A TBI press release warned that he is armed and dangerous.
Authorities believe Drummond may be driving a 2016 Audi A3 with Tennessee plates. The vehicle has visible damage on the driver’s side.
Officials are urging the public: “If you see him, do not approach. Call authorities immediately.”
Federal investigators and TBI agents are working with local law enforcement to continue the investigation and bring the suspect into custody.
This horrifying case has shaken the community, especially as the victims include young adults and a teenager, with a baby girl left behind in a heartbreaking scene. With Drummond still at large, law enforcement is moving quickly and asking the public for help.
If you spot the suspect or know anything about his whereabouts, contact authorities immediately. Do not attempt to confront him.
