A routine traffic stop in Douglas County led to a shocking discovery—a 21-year-old man found dead in the passenger seat. According to the sheriff’s office, Malachi A. Mitchell was shot during a struggle inside the vehicle before deputies unknowingly pulled over the driver. Investigators revealed that Mitchell had arranged to meet the driver, someone he knew, to sell a gun.

The transaction reportedly went as planned, but an altercation broke out moments later. The driver, armed with a separate firearm, shot Mitchell. In a state of panic, the driver continued driving and called someone for advice, fearing he had been set up and was being followed. Deputies stopped the vehicle shortly after the call, uncovering Mitchell’s body.

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The driver, who was not identified, cooperated with law enforcement and was released. No arrests have been made, and investigators are still determining whether the shooting was self-defence or a criminal act. Mitchell’s family is demanding answers and is frustrated by the lack of immediate charges.

Meanwhile, authorities are also investigating threats made against the driver and his family by a local gang. The sheriff’s office urges patience as detectives gather evidence to decide what happens next.