Jackson, TN — A 28-year-old man accused of killing four family members — including the parents, grandmother, and uncle of an infant — has been captured after a multi-day manhunt, according to the Jackson Police Department.
Suspect Taken Into Custody
Austin Robert Drummond was arrested Tuesday in Jackson, more than 100 miles southwest of Nashville, after residents were warned to shelter in place. Police received a report of Drummond being spotted in a neighborhood, leading to his apprehension.
Authorities have not released details about the arrest or whether Drummond has retained legal counsel.
The Victims and Discovery
The killings were discovered in Tiptonville, where the victims were found dead last week. The infant, believed to be related to the victims, was found alive in the Tigrett area, roughly 40 miles from the crime scene and about 70 miles from where Drummond’s car was located.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has described the killings as a targeted attack, stating Drummond had a personal relationship with the victims.
Additional Arrests and Charges
Two other men — Tanaka Brown, 29, and Giovonte Thomas, 29 — have been charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. Investigators allege both assisted Drummond in connection with the killings.
Drummond now faces:
- Four counts of first-degree murder
- One count of aggravated kidnapping
- Multiple weapons offenses
His criminal history includes prison time for robbing a convenience store, threatening jurors, and an attempted murder charge while in prison.
Community Shock and Investigation
The case has shaken communities across western Tennessee. TBI Director David Rausch said the priority now is ensuring the infant’s safety, confirming the child is in protective care.
Authorities are still investigating how the victims were killed, how the infant ended up miles away from the scene, and the events leading up to the murders.
What measures do you think should be taken to protect at-risk family members in domestic-related crime situations? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
