Tennessee – Authorities have confirmed that Austin Robert Drummond, 28, is the prime suspect in the horrifying killings of four members of a family in Tiptonville, Tennessee. The victims—James Matthew Wilson (21), Adrianna Williams (20), Cortney Rose (38), and Braydon Williams (15)—were found shot to death in a wooded area, prompting a massive, multi-agency manhunt. In a disturbing twist, a 7-month-old baby, related to the victims, was found abandoned in a nearby car seat, but remains in stable condition. AP NewsThe SunThe Sun
Drummond was captured in Jackson, Tennessee, following days of intense search efforts that included shelter-in-place orders, surveillance alerts, and public assistance. Videos show him roaming neighborhoods clutching a rifle—an image that spurred both fear and a surge in tips from residents. The Sun+6The Sun+6Fox News+6
During his first court appearance via video, Drummond entered a not guilty plea in response to charges including:
- Four counts of first-degree murder
- Aggravated kidnapping
- Weapons offenses people.com+8AP News+8The Sun+8https://www.wsmv.com+4The Sun+4actionnews5.com+4
Prosecutors have announced their intention to seek the death penalty in this case. Drummond is being held without bond and has been barred from contacting the victims’ families. actionnews5.com+1
Three accomplices—Dearrah Sanders, Tanaka Brown, and Giovonti Thomas—have also been arrested and charged with accessory after the fact, with Brown additionally charged with tampering with evidence. Fox News+5actionnews5.com+5nypost.com+5
Summary
A brutal, targeted quadruple murder in Tiptonville sparked a statewide manhunt when the suspect, Austin Drummond, vanished, leaving behind an abandoned infant. He was apprehended days later and now faces the most severe charges under Tennessee law—with prosecutors notably seeking the death penalty.