TIPTONVILLE, TENN. – July 31, 2025 — A tragic series of events has shocked communities across western Tennessee as law enforcement agencies continue a statewide manhunt for 29-year-old Austin Robert Drummond, who is now the subject of multiple murder warrants following a devastating quadruple homicide.
The incident first came to light on Monday, July 29, when around 3:11 p.m., the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) received a highly unusual and alarming call — an infant had been found abandoned in a stranger’s front yard near the Tigrett area. Deputies responded immediately, initiating a series of investigations that quickly unraveled a much more sinister and heartbreaking story.
By 5:10 p.m., DCSO indicated a desire to speak with three individuals believed to be connected to the unfolding events. As the investigation intensified, authorities made a horrific discovery in Tiptonville, Lake County: Four individuals had been murdered.
The Victims
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has since confirmed the identities of the victims:
- James Wilson
- Adrianna Williams
- Cortney Rose
- 15-year-old Braydon Williams
All four were found deceased under circumstances that have not yet been publicly detailed, pending further investigation and autopsy results. Authorities have not commented on the nature of their relationships, but the presence of a minor among the victims has added a particularly chilling weight to the tragedy.
The Suspect: Austin Robert Drummond
The TBI has now named Austin Robert Drummond as the primary suspect in the quadruple homicide. Drummond is facing four counts of First-Degree Murder, and officials have warned that he should be considered armed and extremely dangerous.
Drummond may be driving a gray 2016 Audi A3 sedan with Tennessee license plate RI 01896. The vehicle reportedly has visible damage on the driver’s side.
Authorities are urging anyone who spots the suspect or the vehicle not to approach but instead to contact law enforcement immediately.
Manhunt in Progress
As of Thursday, the TBI, Dyer County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County authorities, and federal partners have launched an aggressive and multi-jurisdictional search for Drummond. Checkpoints have been set up in various areas, and aerial and K9 support is being deployed in rural regions surrounding Dyer and Lake Counties.
TBI is asking the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings, unusual activity, or potential tips. If you have any information about Austin Robert Drummond’s whereabouts or the vehicle he is driving, call 1-800-TBI-FIND or contact your local law enforcement immediately.
A Community Shattered
This tragedy has rocked both Dyer and Lake Counties, two tight-knit communities now mourning the loss of four lives, including that of a young teenager. Candlelight vigils are being organized as families grieve and await justice.
“This level of violence is simply horrifying,” one Tiptonville resident shared. “We’ve never seen anything like this here.”
The abandoned infant, who remains unnamed, is reportedly safe and in the care of child protective services. Authorities have not yet confirmed the infant’s relationship to the suspect or the victims, though sources close to the investigation say the child may have been spared in a deliberate act.
Ongoing Investigation
The TBI and DCSO have remained tight-lipped about the potential motives behind the killings or any previous interactions Drummond may have had with the victims. Investigators are still processing evidence from the multiple crime scenes, and autopsies are underway.
As the manhunt continues, the public is reminded to stay informed, share verified alerts, and avoid spreading unconfirmed rumors on social media platforms.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for continued updates as the investigation unfolds.
If you see Austin Robert Drummond or the 2016 Audi A3 (TN Plate RI 01896), call 1-800-TBI-FIND. Do not attempt to engage. He is considered armed and dangerous.
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