4 found dead; investigation continues after abandoned infant found

UPDATE (7/31/25 11:14 a.m.): Suspect wanted in deaths of 4 people in Lake County

UPDATE (7/30/25 7:30 p.m.): 4 found dead, infant left in stranger’s yard miles away. What we know so far

UPDATE (7/30/25) 4 p.m.: Officials have confirmed that the four found dead are in fact Cortney Rose, Matthew Wilson, Adrianna Williams, and a juvenile.

UPDATE (7/30/25) 1 p.m.:  Several media outlets report that authorities have identified the four deceased as Cortney Rose, Matthew Wilson, Adrianna Williams, and a juvenile.

UPDATE (7/30/25) 11:07 a.m.: 

FROM THE TENNESSEE BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION: At the request of 29th Judicial District Attorney General Danny Goodman, TBI agents, with the assistance of the FBI and the Lake and Dyer County sheriff’s offices, continue to investigate the deaths of four individuals found Tuesday along Carrington Road in Tiptonville. The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification. At this time, the investigation remains active and ongoing.

UPDATE (7/30/25) 9:33 a.m.:

FROM LAKE COUNTY GOVERNMENT: Below is a statement from Lake County Sheriff Bryan Avery:

“This remains a very active and ongoing investigation, and we want to assure the public that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is leading this case with the highest level of diligence and professionalism.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends, families, and the entire community impacted by this tragic situation. We know this is a difficult time, and we stand with you.
We are grateful to all the agencies and individuals who are working tirelessly on this investigation. Your dedication and commitment to justice do not go unnoticed.
Out of respect for the integrity of the investigation, we will defer any questions or requests for updates to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
We will continue to support their efforts and provide assistance as needed.”

UPDATE ON ABANDONED INFANT CASE AND ACTIVE CRIME SCENE IN LAKE COUNTY

DYER COUNTY, TN [July 29, 2025] – Sheriff Jeff Box of the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office provides an update regarding the ongoing investigation involving the abandoned infant who was found safe earlier today.

As of now, Dyer County investigators are actively working alongside the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at a crime scene in Lake County, where four individuals have been found deceased. The identities of the deceased are currently being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have been requested to respond to assist with this incident.

Sheriff Box expresses his heartache over this tragic situation, stating, “This is a deeply saddening day for our community. We are committed to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served.” He also extends his heartfelt appreciation to Sheriff Bryan Avery and his officers for their swift assistance and collaboration, as this scene is located within Lake County.

The Dyer County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to resolving both the abandoned infant case and the ongoing investigation at the crime scene. We will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. Please remember everyone in your prayers.

If you have any information related to this incident, please contact the Dyer County Sheriff’s Office at 731-285-2802.

EARLIER STORY:

UPDATE (07/29/25 — 5:10 pm): Investigators say they have identified the child and would like to speak with Cortney Rose, Matthew Wilson and Adrianna Williams.

Officials say a full and thorough investigation will ensue, and ask for patience as they reserve judgement and establish the facts. Stay with us on air and online for updates to this story.

ORIGINAL STORY (07/29/25 — 4:37 pm): 

DYER COUNTY, Tenn. — The Dyer County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance in identifying and abandoned infant, and the suspect that left the child behind.

At approximately 3:11 Monday, the sheriff’s office received a call from a witness regarding a dark-colored minivan or a white mid-size SUV that reportedly dropped an infant off in someone’s front yard on Old Highway 20–near the Tigrett area.

According to DCSO, Medical Center EMS and Crockett County Ambulance Service was called to evaluate the child.

DCSO urges the public to assist in this investigation by keeping an eye out for the described vehicles. DCSO is also cooperating with the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Highway Patrol during this active investigation.

If you have any information that may help identify the abandoned child or the individuals involved, please contact the sheriff’s office at 731-285-2802.

No further details are available at this time due to the early nature of the investigation.

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