Federal and state investigators have been called in to help solve a deeply troubling case involving the deaths of a mother, father, grandmother, and a 15-year-old, found this week in Tiptonville, Tennessee.
The investigation began after a 7-month-old baby was discovered abandoned in a front yard, prompting authorities to uncover the tragic deaths of the child’s family members.
Discovery of the Abandoned Baby
The investigation started on Tuesday afternoon, when a random person found the 7-month-old baby, left in a car seat on their front yard in Lake County. Police reported seeing a “dark-colored minivan or a white mid-size SUV” that may have dropped off the baby.
This lead brought authorities to the scene in Tiptonville, where the bodies of the child’s parents, Matthew Wilson and Adrianna Williams, were found, along with the body of the child’s maternal grandmother, Cortney Rose, and his 15-year-old uncle, Braden Williams. The bodies were discovered around 8 p.m. that same evening.
Ongoing Investigation
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) agents, supported by the FBI and local sheriff’s offices, quickly took over the case. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple individuals being questioned.
However, authorities have stated that there is no immediate threat to the general public and that the deaths appear to be connected to the family, with no evidence suggesting it was a random attack.
TBI Communications Director Josh DeVine confirmed that the investigation is active. Local District Attorney Danny Goodman Jr. assured the public that they would have more information at a later time, although he added that this should not be seen as a case that could impact other citizens.
Community Reaction
The deaths have left the local community in shock. Sheriff Jeff Box of Dyer County expressed his sadness, calling Tuesday a “deeply saddening day” for the area. He vowed that authorities would do everything they could to uncover the truth and ensure justice was served.
Sheriff Bryan Avery of Lake County echoed these sentiments, praising the TBI’s professionalism in handling the case and offering thoughts and prayers to those affected. He assured residents that the investigation was being taken with the utmost seriousness.
Next Steps
As of now, authorities have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected or if there are any persons of interest or suspects in the case. The TBI, with the assistance of the FBI, continues to investigate the deaths, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The tragic deaths of four family members, along with the mysterious abandonment of their infant, have left the community shaken. Authorities are working diligently to uncover the truth and provide answers to the family and the public.
While the investigation continues, the TBI and FBI are providing full support to local law enforcement to ensure that justice is served in this heartbreaking case.
