Lake County, Tennessee – November 17, 2025
The state of Tennessee is grappling with the tragic deaths of James M. Wilson, 21, Adrianna Williams, 20, and their family members, who were murdered in a horrific shooting on July 29, 2025. The incident, which also involved the kidnapping of an infant, has shocked the community, and Austin Robert Drummond, 27, has been formally indicted for their deaths. Drummond is set to make his first court appearance on Monday, following his indictment for first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping.
What Happened
The killings took place on July 29, 2025, when James M. Wilson, Adrianna Williams, and their family members were shot dead in a rural area of Tiptonville, Tennessee. Their bodies were found covered with tarps in a wooded area, each having sustained gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as James M. Wilson (aged 21), Adrianna Williams (aged 20), Braydon Williams (aged 15), and Cortney Rose (aged 38), who was the infant’s grandmother.
A week-long manhunt for Drummond ended on August 5, when he was found in Jackson, Tennessee, approximately 70 miles from the crime scene. Drummond, who had previously pleaded not guilty in a lower court, is now facing charges, including first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping.
Drummond is accused of the murders of James M. Wilson and Adrianna Williams, along with Braydon Williams and Cortney Rose, and the kidnapping of their infant child. The baby was found abandoned in the front yard of a home about 40 miles away from the murder scene. The baby was unharmed, and authorities are still investigating the full details of the abduction and how Drummond was involved.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
An FBI agent testified during an earlier hearing that data extracted from Drummond’s cellphone placed him near the wooded area where the bodies were found. Investigators also indicated that the shootings were intentional, but Drummond’s attorney, Bryan Huffman, countered that no concrete evidence had been presented proving that Drummond directly shot the victims.
Drummond’s court arraignment is scheduled for Monday afternoon in the Lake County circuit court. If convicted of first-degree murder, prosecutors have indicated they will seek the death penalty. This high-profile case continues to unfold as new evidence is being reviewed.
Family and Community Reactions
The murder of James M. Wilson, Adrianna Williams, and their family members has deeply impacted the Tennessee community. Friends, family members, and acquaintances of the victims have come forward to express their grief and sadness over the tragic events.
James and Adrianna are remembered by their loved ones for their love for each other, their commitment to their families, and their bright futures. The loss of such young lives, along with the loss of Braydon Williams and Cortney Rose, has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew them.
As the investigation continues, the family is left to mourn the loss of their loved ones while awaiting justice for their tragic deaths. The community has also rallied together, offering support to the surviving family members, particularly the infant who was abducted and later found safe.
What Happens Next
Drummond’s trial is expected to bring further attention to the Tennessee murder case, as the investigation continues to uncover more details about the tragic events of July 29, 2025. The prosecution is determined to ensure justice for the victims, and the case has sparked widespread discussions about safety, violence, and the importance of community support.
Memorial services for James M. Wilson, Adrianna Williams, Braydon Williams, and Cortney Rose will be held in the coming days, allowing friends, family, and community members to honor their lives and remember the love they shared.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
