MADISON COUNTY, AL – Kyle Hayden Lewter, a 36-year-old GOP political staffer well-known in local circles, has been arrested and charged with the murder and sexual torture of 54-year-old Derek Franklin Walls. The incident, resulting from a “physical altercation” between the two men who were known to each other, occurred in the 1700 block of Capshaw Road in the Harvest community.
Upon receiving reports of a deceased male at the location on Thursday, deputies discovered Walls’ body within the residence. While the specific details surrounding the charges of sexual torture, involving the use of an inanimate object, have not been disclosed by authorities, they have confirmed that the death did not result from a shooting. An autopsy is pending to determine the exact cause of death.
In the wake of this tragedy, Walls’ family initiated a GoFundMe campaign to manage funeral expenses, successfully reaching their goal thanks to community support and donations. Shelby Thorson, Walls’ daughter, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support that allowed for a dignified service for her father.
Lewter, meanwhile, has notable connections within the GOP in both the state and Madison County, including paid work for state Senator Tom Butler’s campaign office and a former vice chairman role within the Madison County Young Republicans, as reported by CBS Huntsville affiliate WHNT.