Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office Arrests Austin Prather in Double Murder Case

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has made a significant breakthrough in a double murder case with the arrest of Austin Prather. Prather, the son and grandson of the victims, was apprehended in Evansville, Indiana, on Wednesday evening, thanks to the assistance of cell phone technology. The sheriff’s office is now working alongside Indiana authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the case.

Tragic Incident Unfolds in Science Hill

The shocking incident took place in Science Hill, where law enforcement responded to a distressing report of a shooting victim on Raleigh Road at approximately 11:47 p.m. on Tuesday. Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered the lifeless body of 67-year-old Ardyth Prather Jr., who had tragically fallen victim to a fatal gunshot wound. Additionally, his wife, 65-year-old Joann Prather, was found with both gunshot and stab wounds. She received immediate medical attention and was promptly airlifted to Lexington. At present, her condition remains unknown, and medical professionals are working tirelessly to provide the necessary care.

The investigation took a grim turn as the police followed leads to a nearby property, where they made a gruesome discovery. Inside the residence, investigators found the lifeless body of 43-year-old Ardyth Prather III. It is believed that Austin Prather, the prime suspect, fled the scene in a 2013 brown Jeep Wrangler. Authorities consider him to be armed and dangerous, heightening the urgency of his capture.

Legal Consequences Await Austin Prather

With the mounting evidence against him, an arrest warrant will be issued for Austin Prather, charging him with two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder. This legal action comes as multiple law enforcement agencies collaborate to ensure a thorough investigation into this heinous crime. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with pertinent information to come forward and assist in their efforts by contacting them directly at 606-678-5145.

Currently, Austin Prather is being held in the Vanderburgh County Jail in Evansville, awaiting extradition proceedings in both Indiana and Kentucky. The extradition process will allow for his transfer to the appropriate jurisdiction where he will face the full weight of the charges brought against him.