On December 23, 2023, Brayden Wooten, 21 years old, was found deceased at his residence due to a Fentanyl overdose. The American Forensics Medical Examiner in Mesquite, TX, confirmed the cause of death. During the investigation, it was revealed that the pills consumed by Wooten were delivered by two suspects.
Bryson Lacy, 21, and Xavier Hill, 23, were arrested on December 28, 2023, in connection to Wooten's death. Lacy confessed to deleting text messages related to the incident and was charged with tampering with evidence. Both Lacy and Hill were charged with the murder of Brayden Wooten due to their involvement with the Fentanyl pills.
Sheriff Lewis Tatum issued a stern warning to potential criminals, stating that delivering narcotics resulting in someone's death would lead to murder charges according to Texas law.
In a collaborative effort, the Hopkins County and Sulphur Springs PD Swat Team executed a search warrant at Marques Hood's residence in Commerce. Commerce Police Department, Texas DPS Troopers, and Texas DPS Criminal Investigation Division agents assisted in the operation.
During the search, approximately 1200 Fentanyl-laced pills, with a street value of $12,000, were discovered along with two firearms: an AK-47 style rifle and a Glock pistol. Marques Hood was apprehended and transported to the Hunt County jail, where he was booked on charges of manufacturing and delivering narcotics and the murder of Brayden Wooten in Hopkins County.
Sheriff Tatum reiterated his commitment to maintaining public safety by actively enforcing drug laws in the community and arresting individuals who violate them.
