Man arrested in connection with Red Bank slaying

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

photo Adrian Ladon Gustus

The key suspect in a slaying and robbery in Red Bank over two weeks ago has been arrested.

Adrian Ladon Gustus, 38, was arrested in York County, S.C., today around 2:30 p.m., according to Red Bank Police Chief Tim Christol.

Gustus is currently being held pending extradition to Hamilton County, where he faces charges of felony murder, especially aggravated robbery, and aggravated robbery.

Gustus has been accused of robbing and shooting 65-year-old Winston Gant at Gant's Red Bank towing business on Briggs Avenue July 28.

Gant, who was father-in-law to state Red. Gerald McCormick, R-Chattanooga, later succumbed to his injuries.

Christol said there will be no bond set on Gustus' charge of felony murder.

Adrian Gustus has numerous prior convictions as well as pending criminal charges, including aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, narcotics violations, felony possession of a weapon with prior crimes of violence, attempted 2nd degree murder and 3rd offense DUII, according to Christol.

Another suspect in the case, Sigmung Jermaine Boyd, turned himself in to Red Bank police Aug. 9 and told investigators Gustus was the gunman in the crime.

Boyd, who has been charged with the same charges as Gustus, is set to appear in Red Bank Municipal Court on Sept. 24.