Local Kidnapping Suspect Sought

TYLER – The Smith County Sheriff’s Department is looking for kidnapping suspect Austin Ray Bowers, 26, whose last know address was in Whitehouse. He is wanted for aggravated kidnapping and endangering a child. The sheriff’s department says on its Facebook page, Bowers has threatened to buy high powered rifles to kill anyone who stands between him and his ex-girfriend. He has also said he would be “racking up” felonies before he goes back to prison. If you know where he can be found, you are asked to contact the Smith County Sheriff’s Office. Jail records show Bowers has been booked into the Smith County Jail 17 times since 2009. He was first arrested by the Bullard Police Department for possession of marijuana. His last arrest was last month when he was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance.