Tennessee Couple Transporting Millions in Cocaine Killed in Texas Traffic Stop Shootout

On May 14, a Tennessee couple, Edward and Elizabeth Stevenson, suspected of running illegal drugs for a Mexican cartel, were killed in a shootout with law enforcement in Texas during a traffic stop.

The Putnam County Sheriff's Office had previously identified the couple through undercover buys of illegal drugs. This led to the execution of a search warrant at the Stevensons' home, which resulted in the discovery of nearly a pound of suspected methamphetamine, suspected fentanyl, multiple firearms, body armor, and ammunition.

Revelations and Alert to Authorities

During the search, it was revealed that the Stevensons were transporting illegal drugs in a semi-truck through Texas while being armed. The sheriff's office immediately alerted the Donley County Sheriff's Office in Texas and the Texas Department of Public Safety about the couple's activities.

Deputies in Donley County attempted to stop the semi-truck, but the couple continued to drive for several miles before eventually stopping. Subsequently, Edward and Elizabeth opened fire on the deputies and troopers, resulting in a shootout that led to the couple's demise.

Seized Drugs and Border Policies

Authorities found about 64 pounds of suspected cocaine valued at an estimated $3.4 million inside the couple's vehicle, which appeared to be en route to Tennessee. Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris attributed the ease of drug trafficking to open border policies, making it "much easier for Mexican cartel members and their associates" to traffic illegal drugs into smaller communities.