A Tennessee Tragedy: The Unfolding Mystery of a Quadruple Homicide and an Abandoned Infant
A shocking crime scene in rural Tennessee has launched a massive multi-county investigation, leaving a community reeling and authorities desperately searching for a dangerous fugitive. The case, which began with the miraculous discovery of an unharmed infant, has tragically unfolded to reveal a suspected quadruple homicide.
The Discovery and the Initial Investigation
On Tuesday, July 29th, 2025, at approximately 3:11 p.m., a seemingly ordinary afternoon took a dramatic turn in Dyer County, Tennessee. A seven-month-old baby was found abandoned in a car seat, left at a residence on Old Highway 20 near Tigrett. A quick-thinking witness immediately called 911 after observing a dark-colored minivan or a white mid-size SUV dropping the infant off. Paramedics swiftly arrived, confirming the baby was unharmed. A photograph released by the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office showed the infant safely cradled in a paramedic’s arms – a stark contrast to the horror that was yet to unfold.
A Race Against Time: Identifying the Infant and Launching a Search
The discovery of the abandoned child triggered a swift and coordinated response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office, the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. The investigation intensified as authorities worked to identify the infant. By 5:10 p.m. on July 30th, the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office publicly requested assistance in locating Cortney Rose, James Matthew Wilson, and Adrianna Williams, issuing a heartfelt plea for information.
The Heartbreaking Revelation: A Quadruple Homicide
The initial investigation took a devastating turn with the grim discovery of four deceased individuals on Carrington Road in Tiptonville, Lake County. The victims were identified as James Matthew Wilson (21), his partner Adrianna Williams (20), Adrianna’s mother Cortney Rose (38), and Cortney’s teenage son, Braydon Williams (15). The connection between the abandoned infant and these tragic deaths became horrifyingly clear.
A Suspect Emerges: The Hunt for Austin Robert Drummond
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) swiftly identified 29-year-old Austin Robert Drummond as a suspect. Drummond, who had been released from prison in September 2024, is considered armed and dangerous, with an arrest warrant issued for his apprehension. A nationwide manhunt is underway, with authorities urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to contact 731-415-7962, 731-333-0811, or 1-800-TBI-FIND.
The Community’s Response: Grief, Support, and a Plea for Caution
The tragedy has shaken the community to its core. District Attorney Danny Goodman Jr. confirmed the child’s relation to the deceased and emphasized that while the case is deeply disturbing, he believed it to be an isolated incident, allaying fears of an ongoing public safety threat beyond the pursuit of the suspect.
Voices of Grief and Hope: Remembering the Victims
Amy Anderson, a close family friend, spoke of the profound loss, describing Adrianna as a loving mother and Matthew as a devoted father. She also highlighted Cortney’s unwavering love for her children, expressing gratitude that the infant survived. Anderson also issued a plea for restraint, urging the public to avoid spreading unsubstantiated rumors during this sensitive time.
Family’s Plea for Help: Seeking Justice for Their Lost Loved Ones
Matt Wilson, James’ father, has actively engaged in the search for Austin Drummond, utilizing social media to share crucial information and raise public awareness. His heartfelt messages reflect the family’s immense grief and their determination to see justice served. Other family members, such as Amanda K. Myatt, have also shared potentially vital information, such as images of a vehicle potentially connected to the suspect.
The Ongoing Investigation: A Multi-Agency Effort
The investigation is a complex, multi-agency effort involving the FBI and numerous local law enforcement agencies. While authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the cause of death or the reasons behind the infant’s abandonment, the commitment to finding answers and bringing the perpetrator to justice remains unwavering. The search for Austin Robert Drummond continues, and the community awaits answers as this heartbreaking mystery unfolds.
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