Laquita Stewart Shot in Face at Close Range After Dropping Children Off at Dallas Youth Practice

A young mother was left critically injured after being shot at close range following a confrontation outside a Dallas school campus, authorities said.

Laquita “Ko Koa” Stewart, 33, had just dropped off her children for a youth practice near the 2400 block of 52nd Street, outside Harry Stone Montessori Academy in east Oak Cliff, when the violence unfolded.

According to investigators, a confrontation escalated involving 20-year-old Ladarius Campbell, who allegedly fired a .357 revolver, striking Stewart in the face at close range.

The shooting left Stewart with life-threatening injuries, and she was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

An off-duty Dallas Police Department officer, identified as Ruben Martinez, was in the area with family members at the time of the incident. Authorities said Martinez witnessed the confrontation and intervened, ultimately discharging his weapon at the suspect.

Campbell was also transported to a hospital after sustaining serious injuries during the exchange. Officials later reported that his injuries resulted in paralysis.

Investigators said multiple individuals were present in nearby vehicles when the shooting occurred. Authorities reviewed witness accounts and examined whether others may have had any involvement in the incident.

As is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings, Officer Martinez was placed on administrative leave while officials conducted a review of his use of force.

The case remains part of an ongoing investigation.