A Tennessee couple transporting millions of dollars’ worth of cocaine was fatally shot during a traffic stop in Texas, authorities reported. Edward and Elizabeth Stevenson were initially identified through undercover drug purchases by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. This led to a search warrant being issued for their home, where investigators discovered a significant amount of suspected methamphetamine, fentanyl, firearms, body armor, and ammunition.
Further investigation revealed that the Stevensons were driving a semi-truck through Texas with illegal drugs and were armed. The couple had reportedly expressed intentions of engaging in a 'suicide by cop' scenario if confronted by law enforcement.
Upon receiving this information, authorities in Donley County, Texas, were alerted. When deputies attempted to stop the semi-truck, the Stevensons opened fire, resulting in a fatal shootout.
Subsequent searches of the couple’s vehicle uncovered approximately 64 pounds of suspected cocaine valued at $3.4 million. Sheriff Eddie Farris of Putnam County attributed the incident to lax border policies facilitating drug trafficking into local communities.
Sheriff Farris expressed gratitude to the community for providing anonymous tips that aided in the investigation. He urged the public to report any suspicious activities to law enforcement, emphasizing the potential life-saving impact of such information.
