WJLE Radio reports that a manhunt in DeKalb County on September 21, 2025 led to the capture of 27-year-old Payton Nations of Cookeville, wanted in connection with a double homicide in Overton County. The operation began after DeKalb Central Dispatch received a call at 12:19 pm reporting a man pushing a vehicle into Austin Bottom Lake Access, who then fled on foot.

Deputies from DeKalb and Putnam Counties responded, identifying a BOLO for Nations linked to the homicide case. A multi-agency search involving land, water, and air efforts ensued, supported by camera footage and a clothing description that helped track Nations’ movements. Reverse 911 calls alerted residents in the Austin Bottom and Hurricane Bridge areas to be on the lookout.

Around 5:30 pm, a motorist spotted a suspect near Hurricane Bridge, and by 6:00 pm, a resident on Old Baxter Road in Putnam County reported seeing someone matching Nations’ description. A Tennessee Highway Patrol officer apprehended Nations without incident. Sheriff Patrick Ray expressed gratitude to the involved law enforcement agencies, including Putnam County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, and others, as well as to citizens and motorists who aided in the capture.