A couple from Putnam County, Tennessee, was involved in a fatal shootout with law enforcement officers in Texas after a high-speed chase.
Edward and Elizabeth Stevenson had been under investigation by drug agents in Putnam County for some time.
When agents raided their home on May 9, they found drugs and weapons, indicating the couple was prepared for violence.
It was discovered that the couple had crossed the border into Mexico to make a drug deal with a cartel and were returning with a large shipment of cocaine.
The couple refused to stop for officers in Texas and engaged in a shootout, resulting in their deaths.
A search of their truck revealed 64 pounds of cocaine worth close to $3 million.
The sheriff blamed the open border policy with Mexico for contributing to drug problems in Middle Tennessee and Cookeville.
Elizabeth and Edward Stevenson were both convicted felons, with Elizabeth having a previous drug-related conviction.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing with cooperation between Tennessee and Texas authorities.
