Denton County Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell Hospitalized After Brutal Attack That Killed Her Husband, Grandson Charged with Murder
LEWISVILLE, TEXAS — A tragic and deeply disturbing incident has shaken the North Texas community as longtime Denton County Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell was critically injured and her husband, Fred Mitchell, was killed in a brutal stabbing inside their Lewisville home early Monday morning. Authorities have charged their grandson, 23-year-old Mitchell Blake Reinacher, with murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Incident Unfolds Before Dawn
According to the Lewisville Police Department, officers responded to a 911 call at approximately 3:53 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025, reporting an ongoing assault at the Mitchells’ home on Springwood Drive. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Bobbie Mitchell, 76, and her husband Fred Mitchell, 75, both suffering from multiple stab wounds.
Despite emergency life-saving measures, Fred Mitchell succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at 5:08 a.m. Commissioner Mitchell was rushed to a nearby hospital where she was listed in stable condition and is expected to recover.
Police say Reinacher, who lived at the residence with his grandparents, was taken into custody without resistance at the scene. A motive for the attack has not yet been confirmed, and the investigation remains active.
A Beloved Public Servant
Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell is a well-known and highly respected figure in Denton County politics. First elected in 2000, she is the longest-serving member of the Denton County Commissioners Court and was the first African American to serve as mayor of Lewisville in 1993. Her decades of service have made her a cornerstone of civic life in the region.
Fred Mitchell, though less publicly visible, was known for his quiet strength and unwavering support of his wife’s career. The couple had been married for decades and were deeply rooted in their faith and public service.
Community Reeling from the Violence
The attack has sent shockwaves through the local and statewide community.
“Bobbie was one of the first people I spoke to when I considered running for public office. She has been a friend, a mentor, and a leader,” said Lewisville Mayor TJ Gilmore. “Fred was always by her side — supportive, kind, and present. He will be deeply missed.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott also issued a statement:
“Cecilia and I are heartbroken by the news of Fred Mitchell’s tragic death and the injuries suffered by Commissioner Bobbie Mitchell. Our thoughts are with their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We pray for Bobbie’s full recovery.”
Denton County Judge Andy Eads shared his shock and sorrow, describing the Mitchells as “pillars of the community” and expressing his full support for Commissioner Mitchell during her recovery.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Mitchell Blake Reinacher has been booked into the Lewisville Jail on charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. His bond has been set at $600,000. Authorities have not commented on whether Reinacher has legal representation at this time.
Investigators continue to work through the details of what led to the violent attack, and police are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.
A Community in Mourning
As the news of the attack continues to spread, tributes and prayers are pouring in from across Texas. Commissioner Bobbie J. Mitchell’s remarkable legacy of leadership and her current fight for recovery are uniting the community in sorrow and support.
“She is the heart of this county,” one local resident shared. “It’s unimaginable what she and her family have endured, and we’re all praying she makes a full recovery.”
This developing story continues to be followed closely by local and state media, with updates expected from law enforcement and Denton County officials in the coming days.