A quiet Friday morning in Waverly, Tennessee, turned into a heartbreaking scene after four members of the same family were found dead inside a home. Authorities say the tragic discovery has deeply shaken the tight-knit Humphreys County community, where many residents personally knew the victims and their family.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said deputies were called to the home Friday morning to conduct a welfare check, though he did not disclose who requested it. When deputies entered the residence, they discovered four people deceased inside. All were family members, and all had suffered gunshot wounds, according to the sheriff.
The victims were identified as 4-year-old Arius Thompson, 13-year-old Isaiah Thompson, and 88-year-old Evelyn Johnson. Deputies also identified 32-year-old Heather Thompson as the fourth person found dead in the home. Sheriff Davis confirmed that all of the victims were lifelong residents of Humphreys County, making the loss especially painful for the local community.
Following a preliminary investigation, Sheriff Davis said evidence indicates that Heather Thompson fatally shot the three family members before taking her own life. Authorities have not released further details about what may have led up to the tragic events, and the investigation remains ongoing as officials work to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Sheriff Davis became emotional while addressing the tragedy, emphasizing the personal impact it has had on him and his department. “Here again, small town America. Here again, I know the families,” he said. “So, we’re going to do right by them. We’re going to respect them. We’re going to do right by them.” His words reflected the deep sorrow felt across the community.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is assisting the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation continues. As Waverly mourns the loss of four lives, neighbors, friends, and loved ones are left grieving a devastating tragedy that has touched the entire county. Authorities say additional information will be released as it becomes available, while the community comes together to support the family and honor the victims’ memories.
