DALLAS TEXAS, A violent incident in east Oak Cliff left a 33-year-old mother critically injured after she was shot at close range outside a school campus.
According to reports, the victim, Laquita “Ko Koa” Stewart, had just dropped off her children for a youth practice near the 2400 block of 52nd Street, outside Harry Stone Montessori Academy, when the incident occurred.
Investigators stated that a confrontation escalated involving a 20-year-old suspect, identified as Ladarius Campbell. Authorities allege that Campbell discharged a .357 revolver, striking Stewart in the face at close range.
The injuries sustained were severe, and Stewart was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
An off-duty Dallas Police Department officer, Ruben Martinez, was in the area with family members at the time of the incident. Officials reported that he witnessed the situation and intervened.
During the response, Martinez discharged his weapon at the suspect. Campbell was also transported to a hospital, where officials later reported that he suffered injuries resulting in paralysis.
Authorities noted that several individuals were present in nearby vehicles, and investigators reviewed their potential involvement as well as witness accounts as part of the case.
Following standard procedure for officer-involved shootings, Officer Martinez was placed on administrative leave while the circumstances surrounding the use of force were reviewed.
