A statewide manhunt continues in Tennessee for Austin Robert Drummond, the 28-year-old suspect charged in connection with the brutal killings of four relatives in Lake County earlier this week. During a TBI press conference today, officials implored Drummond to surrender peacefully and warned residents of the Jackson area, where he may still be hiding, to remain vigilant.
Victims and Discovery
On Tuesday, July 29, authorities discovered the bodies of James “Matthew” Wilson (21), Adrianna Williams (20), Cortney Rose (38), and Braydon Williams (15) along Carrington Road in Lake County. That same day, a 7-month-old baby girl — related to the victims — was found abandoned in a driveway in Tigrett, Dyer County. She was unharmed and is now under protective care.
Suspect Identified and Charges Filed
On Thursday, July 31, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation named Drummond as the prime suspect. He faces charges including four counts of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and multiple weapons offenses. He is now on the TBI’s Most Wanted List, with a reward of $15,000 for information leading to his arrest.
Criminal Background
Drummond previously served nearly 10 years in prison for aggravated robbery and was released in September 2024. At the time of this week's killings, he was reportedly out on bail for a separate attempted murder charge.
Key Points from the TBI Press Conference
At Friday’s press conference, TBI Director David Rausch urged Drummond to surrender peacefully, noting the incident appears to be targeted rather than random. He cited a potential sign of conscience: the baby was left unharmed.
Drummond’s white 2016 Audi A3 was found abandoned on MCO Road in Jackson. His last confirmed sighting was Wednesday in Jackson, and law enforcement believes he may still be in the area. The public is urged to avoid contact and immediately report sightings to 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Community Impact
The killings have rocked the quiet community of Tiptonville. Family members expressed shock and grief on social media, saying they had trusted Drummond. The investigation is ongoing, involving multiple agencies including the U.S. Marshals, FBI, and local law enforcement.
REWARD: $15,000 for information leading to arrest
