Kyle Hayden Lewter, pictured here, murdered Derek Franklin Walls as a result of a “physical altercation,” authorities said. (Mug shot: Madison County Sheriff’s Office; Screenshot WAFF/YouTube)
A man, known locally as a GOP political staffer, allegedly murdered another man in a “physical altercation,” according to authorities in Madison County, Alabama. Kyle Hayden Lewter, 36, is currently locked up at the local jail, accused of murder and sexual torture – sexual abuse using inanimate object, though authorities did not elaborate on the details behind the latter crime.
Deputies said they received a call on Thursday of a man dead on the 1700 block of Capshaw Road in the Harvest community. They found Derek Franklin Walls, 54, dead in the home.
“It appears that there was a physical altercation between both individuals who were known to each other, which ultimately resulted in the death of Mr. Walls,” they wrote.
Investigators did not elaborate except to rule out a shooting. The autopsy was pending.
Walls’ family started a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses. His daughter, Shelby Thorson, said they were able to meet their goal.
“We are forever grateful for all the kind words and support. I wanted to update everyone that I will be closing down the gofundme shortly,” she wrote. “We now have enough to have a beautiful service thanks to all you guys and family donations. During this hard time everyone has come together to make things happen and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you all again. God bless.”
Lewter has ties to the GOP in the state and Madison County, according to CBS Huntsville affiliate WHNT. For example, he did paid work for state Sen. Tom Butler’s campaign office and had been vice chairman of the the Madison County Young Republicans.
“I do not want to comment on an ongoing investigation. I know Mr. Lewter and I am very surprised and shocked at this,” Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon told the outlet.
Butler described himself as being “speechless” and “saddened for all families involved,” according to Huntsville NBC affiliate WAFF.
