(NewsNation) — Austin Drummond, the man accused of killing four people last week in Tennessee, has been captured and is in police custody.
Drummond, 28, was captured Tuesday by U.S. Marshals. The bodies of four people were discovered July 29 after a baby was found abandoned in front of a stranger’s house. Drummond is accused of killing the baby’s parents, grandmother and uncle.
“This would not have been achieved without the tireless work and dedication of our local, state, and federal partners,” Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box said in a statement. “Their commitment to justice and public safety around the clock since Tuesday at 3pm has been invaluable throughout this investigation. Also, our citizens have been extremely helpful and cooperative. Thank you so much for always being a willing partner with our deputies and investigators.”
Authorities say around 8 a.m., they had received multiple sightings of Drummond, while also receiving additional citizen calls. This prompted officers to locate Drummond and make the arrest just an hour later.
This successful apprehension was made possible by the countless tips and unwavering support
that we received from you, the citizens,” added Kim Wheeler, Public Information Officer for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
“Without your partnership and willingness to come forward with information, this arrest would not have been made possible. Thank you for being the eyes and ears.”
Drummond had been out on bond in multiple counties, and authorities added that those prior charges will be taken into consideration as the justice process moves forward. His housing will also be impacted.
“The real work starts, and the lengthy work will start at this point,” said Officer Terry Troutt. “Investigations do not end when a person is arrested. That’s just the part to get them into custody,”
As for a possible motive, authorities confirmed that Drummond had been dating a state corrections officer who is related to the victims and is pregnant with Drummond’s baby. The corrections officer was also fired from her job over the affair.
“Our hearts go out to each of these families,” said Lake County Sheriff Bryan Avery.
“We cannot begin to imagine the depth of your pain, the weight of your grief, or the heartbreak of what you are now facing. Please know that this community stands with you.”
The investigation is ongoing. Drummond is facing first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping charges.