Community expresses relief after week-long manhunt for Drummond ends

LAKE COUNTY, Tenn. — In our continuing coverage, we take a look at how communities are responding after the week-long manhunt comes to an end Tuesday.

Our crew went to canvas local neighboring communities after the capture of Tennessee’s most wanted fugitive Austin Drummond.

After this end of this massive manhunt, local residents express their gratitude now that Drummond is in custody.

“Obviously it’s a pretty small town overall. Something like this is fairly major. So, it’s something that’s really bothered a lot of us. It’s something that’s really on the mind of everyone. It’s a huge relief that’s he’s been captured as I heard this morning, and we’re all very thankful for it,” said Jaron Baker, Dyersburg resident.

Several residents tell me they can’t believe that Austin Drummond stayed here for an entire week. Most say they’re surprised that he stayed here in the state of Tennessee.

“I grew up about 20 minutes from where the murders took place. You know that’s the type of community where you don’t ever have to always lock your doors. My mom still lives there and she talks about it a lot and I know it’s going to big a huge relief just getting someone off the street like that,” said Baker.

Another Dyersburg resident, James Bailey, tells us he was thinking about joining the search to find Drummond.

“I actually was going to get out in the woods myself to see if I could get him for the money and I didn’t make. But, I’m glad they did,” said Bailey.

For several days, residents have been vigilant and on edge while Drummond was on the run. Now, they can all breathe a sigh of relief knowing he’s behind bars.

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