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Police confirm details in private gun sale shooting
Speculation surrounding the death of a man in Douglas County has taken a new turn. The family of Malachi Mitchall has wondered why police allowed the person deputies caught with his body to walk away. Now, the sheriff's office is providing new details about the case.
DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ga. - The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has released new details regarding the Jan. 29 shooting death of 21-year-old Malachi A. Mitchell, whose body was discovered in a vehicle during a routine traffic stop near Thornton Road and Interstate 20. Authorities say their investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests have been made at this time.
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What we know:
Deputies conducting a traffic stop on January 29 discovered a deceased passenger, later identified as Malachi A. Mitchell. The driver of the vehicle, whose identity has not been released, was taken to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for questioning. He reportedly cooperated fully with investigators and was later released.
According to the sheriff’s office, the investigation has revealed that Mitchell met with the driver—who was known to him—to sell a gun. After the sale was completed, a struggle broke out in the vehicle, and the driver pulled out a separate firearm and shot Mitchell. Following the shooting, the driver continued driving and contacted someone for advice. The individual, now a witness in the case, told investigators the driver was in a state of panic, believed he had been set up, and thought he was being followed.
Deputies pulled over the vehicle shortly after this call, leading to the discovery of Mitchell’s body.
What we don't know:
Authorities have not disclosed whether charges will be filed against the driver, nor have they determined if the shooting was self-defense or a crime. The sheriff’s office has stated that their investigation remains active and that they will follow the evidence wherever it leads without rushing to judgment.
Malachi Mitchell (Photo submitted by family)
What they're saying:
Mitchell’s family has expressed frustration over the lack of immediate arrests. His mother told FOX 5 Atlanta that she didn’t even know her son was dead until she and his girlfriend tracked his phone’s location and stumbled upon the crime scene.
Meanwhile, authorities are urging patience, emphasizing that they will not rush to judgment in the case.
The sheriff’s office also confirmed that the driver and his family have received death threats from a local criminal street gang.
What's next:
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office says it is still gathering evidence and conducting interviews. Whether charges will be filed against the driver remains unclear. Investigators will likely determine if the shooting was justified or if criminal charges are warranted.
The threats against the driver are also a concern for law enforcement, as they work to ensure the safety of all parties involved while maintaining the integrity of the investigation.
For now, authorities are urging the public to be patient as they piece together the full circumstances surrounding Mitchell’s death.