Tennessee authorities have arrested Giovonte Thomas, 28, and Tanaka Brown, 29, on charges of accessory after the fact to first-degree murder as the manhunt for Austin Drummond, the suspect in a quadruple homicide, continues. The two men, described as ‘associates’ of the fugitive, were apprehended by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) in connection with the evasion of Drummond, 28, who is accused of killing four individuals in Tiptonville. Drummond, who remains at large, faces four counts of first-degree murder, along with charges of aggravated kidnapping and weapon-related offenses. The TBI has issued a $17,000 reward for information leading to his capture, warning that he is considered ‘armed and dangerous.’
Following the arrest of Thomas and Brown, authorities revealed that the victims—James M. Wilson, 21, Adrianna Williams, 20, Cortney Rose, 38, and Braydon Williams, 15—were found in Tiptonville on Tuesday. The TBI stated that an infant recovered on the front lawn of a random home is believed to be connected to all four victims, identified as family members of Drummond’s girlfriend. Police emphasized that the suspect’s actions are not only a criminal offense but also raise concerns about the impact on local communities and families, underscoring the need for public cooperation in bringing the fugitive to justice.
Thomas, who was already being held in the Madison County Jail for a separate charge of Failure to Appear, will be transferred to the Lake County Jail for arraignment on the new charges. Brown, however, is being held at the Lake County Jail without bond. The arrests have raised questions about the extent of Drummond’s network and the role of his associates in his alleged crimes. As the TBI continues its manhunt, the situation highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with high-profile fugitives, especially those involved in violent crimes. The agency has also reported finding an abandoned vehicle in Jackson, a city roughly 70 miles southeast of Tiptonville, which may provide further clues about Drummond’s movements and intentions.
The DA’s office has linked the case to a ‘targeted attack,’ emphasizing the significance of the infant victim found in the home. The discovery has prompted heightened concern about the suspect’s possible motives, though no explicit rationale has been disclosed. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, as the investigation continues to unfold. With the potential for further developments, the case remains a focal point for law enforcement as they strive to secure a conviction or capture Drummond, who remains a high-priority target.