Jackson, TN – Authorities in Tennessee have arrested three individuals believed to have assisted a man accused of killing four relatives of an infant who was later found abandoned but alive. The primary suspect, 28-year-old Austin Robert Drummond, remains on the run and is considered armed and dangerous.
Arrests Connected to the Case
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) announced Monday the arrest of Dearrah Sanders, 23, of Jackson. Sanders is charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder for allegedly helping Drummond after the killings.
Her arrest follows the weekend apprehension of Tanaka Brown, 29, and Giovonte Thomas, 29, both also charged with accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. Brown faces an additional charge of tampering with evidence.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific ways in which the three suspects allegedly assisted Drummond.
The Manhunt for Drummond
Drummond is wanted in connection with the deaths of James M. Wilson, 21; Adrianna Williams, 20; Cortney Rose, 38; and Braydon Williams, 15, whose bodies were discovered in Tiptonville.
According to the TBI, Wilson and Adrianna Williams were the infant’s parents, while Rose was Adrianna and Braydon Williams’ mother.
Officials believe Drummond had a personal relationship with the victims and that the murders were targeted. The infant, found in a car seat in the Tigrett area—about 40 miles from where the bodies were discovered—is safe and being cared for.
Evidence and Surveillance Footage
Investigators located a 1988 white Ford pickup truck with a red stripe—believed to have been driven by Drummond—in Jackson, Tennessee.
The TBI also released two surveillance videos showing Drummond on Sunday night in Jackson’s Pipkin Road area. In the footage, Drummond is seen holding a black rifle and wearing camouflage pants.
Authorities are offering a $32,500 reward for information leading to his capture, with contributions from the Tennessee governor’s office, Crime Stoppers organizations, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Read Also: 7-Month-Old Baby Killed in Targeted Shooting at South Carolina Apartment, Police Say
Criminal Background
Drummond’s criminal history includes a prison sentence for robbing a convenience store and threatening jurors, as well as an attempted murder charge during incarceration. Warrants for his arrest now include:
- Four counts of first-degree murder
- One count of aggravated kidnapping
- Multiple weapons offenses
Community Impact and Ongoing Search
The killings have left the Tiptonville community reeling. Law enforcement is urging the public to remain vigilant and not to approach Drummond if spotted.
“This was a targeted, violent attack, and we are committed to bringing the person responsible to justice,” said TBI Director David Rausch.
Have you seen Austin Robert Drummond or have tips about his whereabouts? Contact the TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND. Share your thoughts and stay updated on developing crime stories at newyorkdailygazette.com.
