The grandson of Denton County Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell was arrested on Monday after he allegedly stabbed the Texas politician and her husband.
Why It Matters
The Lewisville Police Department described Mitchell as a “prominent public servant” in a press release posted to Facebook. She was elected as the city’s first Black mayor in 1993 and previously served on the Lewisville City Council. She resigned as mayor in 2000 to pursue her county position.
What To Know
Lewisville Police Department officers responded to a report of an assault on Springwood Drive at around 3:53 a.m. Responding officers found two victims, a male and a female, suffering from apparent stab wounds. The victims were identified as Bobbie Mitchell and her husband, Fred Mitchell.
Police identified the suspect as their grandson, Michell Blake Reinacher. He was still on the scene when officials arrived.
Denton County and City of Lewisville Jail
Officials said Reinacher was taken into custody “immediately” and “without incident.”
Bobbie Mitchell, who is the commissioner for Precinct 3, is in stable condition and is being treated for stab wounds. Fred Mitchell was pronounced dead from his injuries shortly after 5 a.m.
The commissioner has lived in Lewisville since 1971. She has two children, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She has been serving in government roles since 1985.
Who Is Mitchell Reinacher?
Reinacher, 23, is a Lewisville resident. He was booked into the Lewisville jail. He is charged with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
What People Are Saying
Denton County Judge Andy Eads, on Facebook: “My dear friend, colleague and mentor Precinct 3 Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell has suffered a huge tragedy this morning. I ask that you keep her and her family in your prayers as she recovers. Her beloved husband, Fred Mitchell, a longtime friend, will be greatly missed. Please honor their privacy as the family navigates this horrible tragedy.”
Texas State Representative Jared Patterson, on X, formerly Twitter: “Please join Leslie and me in prayer for Denton County’s most beloved public servant, Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell, as she attempts to recover from this attack while mourning the death of her husband, Fred.”
What Happens Next
The Lewisville Police Department said the crime scene will remain active as investigators and detectives continue to process evidence and look into the circumstances leading up to the attack. Police also said that additional information will be released as the investigation continues.
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