Fred Mitchell Obituary, Death – In a shocking incident early Monday morning, a well-known Denton County public official was seriously injured and her husband fatally stabbed in what authorities are calling a domestic attack carried out by their grandson.
Police responded to a distress call around 3:50 a.m. reporting an assault in progress at a residence in the 1000 block of Springwood Drive in Lewisville. Upon arrival, officers found 76-year-old Bobbie J. Mitchell, the Denton County Commissioner for Precinct 3, and her husband, 75-year-old Fred Mitchell, suffering from stab wounds.
Both victims were quickly transported to a nearby hospital. While Commissioner Mitchell’s condition was later reported as stable, Fred Mitchell tragically succumbed to his injuries around 5 a.m., according to a statement released by the Lewisville Police Department.
Police identified the suspect as the couple’s grandson, Michell Blake Reinacher. He was reportedly still present at the scene when authorities arrived and was taken into custody without resistance. Reinacher was subsequently booked into the Lewisville city jail and faces serious charges, including one count of murder and one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
As of Monday morning, investigators had not disclosed a motive for the attack. The circumstances leading up to the stabbing remain unclear, and police say the investigation is still ongoing. Authorities have not released any additional details about the events that unfolded prior to the violence, or whether any previous disturbances had been reported at the residence.
The news of the incident sent shockwaves throughout the Denton County community and prompted an outpouring of support for Commissioner Mitchell, who has long been regarded as a dedicated public servant and a pillar of her community.
Denton County Judge Andy Eads expressed deep sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post shortly after the incident became public. “My dear friend, colleague, and mentor, Precinct 3 Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell, has suffered a huge tragedy this morning,” Eads wrote. “I ask that you keep her and her family in your prayers as she recovers.” He also paid tribute to Fred Mitchell, calling him a longtime friend who will be dearly missed.
Commissioner Mitchell, who has served in various roles in local government for decades, is widely respected for her leadership and commitment to the residents of Denton County. Known for her warmth and dedication, she has earned admiration from colleagues, community leaders, and constituents alike.
State Representative Jared Patterson of Frisco also took to social media to express his sympathies and support. In a post shared Monday, Patterson wrote, “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.”
The tragedy has not only shaken those who knew the Mitchells personally but also left the broader community reeling. Many residents and local officials have shared their grief, offering words of comfort and support on social media and through various public statements.
Neighbors in the quiet residential area of Springwood Drive were stunned to learn of the violence, noting that the Mitchells were known as kind and active members of the neighborhood. “It’s hard to believe something like this could happen to such a nice couple,” said one neighbor who asked not to be named. “They’ve always been friendly, and this is just heartbreaking.”
As police continue their investigation, questions remain about Reinacher’s motivations and the events that led up to the attack. Authorities have not indicated whether mental health issues, substance use, or family disputes may have played a role. For now, the community is focused on mourning the loss of Fred Mitchell and supporting Commissioner Mitchell in her recovery and grieving process.
Fred Mitchell, who supported his wife’s political career and was active in community life, is remembered by friends as a kind-hearted and generous individual. His death marks a painful loss for both his family and the larger Denton County community.
Meanwhile, Michell Blake Reinacher remains in custody as legal proceedings begin. If convicted of the charges brought against him, he could face life in prison. The case is expected to attract significant attention, given the prominence of the victims and the shocking nature of the alleged crime.
In the days ahead, Denton County residents are expected to gather in support of Commissioner Mitchell, with local leaders likely to organize tributes and memorials to honor Fred Mitchell’s memory. For many, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the often unseen complexities of family life and the importance of mental health resources and support systems.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in grief, holding close one of its most respected leaders and mourning alongside her for the loved one she has lost.