Police in Jackson, Tennessee issued an evacuation warning for two neighborhoods on Tuesday after a suspected quadruple murder was linked to Austin Drummond, who is believed to be armed with a rifle.
A source familiar with the case indicated that a shelter at the site is associated with the search for Drummond. The Jackson Police Department confirmed a sighting of him on the 700 block of Pipkin Road on Sunday evening, stating he should be considered “armed and dangerous.” Police spokesman Stephanie Graham noted that these sightings were captured on surveillance video at a church.
Residents are urged to stay vigilant when entering or leaving their homes. “Drummond is thought to still be in the area, so it’s crucial to lock all doors and outbuildings to prevent unauthorized access,” the police emphasized. They encouraged community members to report any suspicious activity caught on camera.
The search area is located about four miles from where Drummond abandoned a vehicle that authorities believe he was driving last week. In one of the released videos, he appeared to attempt to open a door to enter a building around 11 PM on Sunday.
The reward for information leading to his capture has increased to $32,500, with assistance from a special task force dedicated to his manhunt.
“Our main goal is to find Austin Drummond and bring justice to the victims’ families,” officials stated, adding that efforts from various agencies, including those led by Governor Bill Lee, highlight their commitment to community safety.
Drummond, 28, is accused of killing four individuals in Tiptonville, situated approximately 125 miles from Memphis. The victims—James M. Wilson, 21; Adriana Williams, 20; Courtney Rose, 38; and Braydon Williams, 15—were discovered in Tiptonville. Additionally, an infant related to the victims was found on July 29.
Drummond is facing four counts of first-degree murder, as well as weapons charges. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has also taken three individuals into custody who are believed to be connected to Drummond.
Giovonte Thomas, 29, along with two others, have been charged with being accessories to first-degree murder in relation to the ongoing manhunt for Drummond. One of them is also facing a charge of tampering with evidence.
