Nationwide — Monae Brooks, a 32-year-old African American mother of two from Harris County, Texas, was shot and killed in front of her children after a roadside confrontation. Investigators say she had been experiencing mental health struggles and had already contacted police earlier that same day.
Earlier that morning, home surveillance in the Highland Creek Ranch neighborhood captured a woman walking while holding a gun. A resident reported the footage to police, and officers later identified the person as Brooks, who lived in the area.
According to ABC 13, authorities also confirmed that Brooks had called law enforcement before the shooting. She reported finding a bullet placed on top of her vehicle and asked officers to take a police report, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
While a deputy was on the way to respond, emergency calls started reporting a shooting in the same area. Investigators said Brooks was driving with her 8-year-old daughter, 4-year-old son, and their dog when she came across a van pulling a trailer.
Surveillance video shows the van pulling over to let her pass. Brooks then stopped her car and began arguing with the other driver. Investigators said she later pulled out a pistol, and the driver responded by firing a weapon.
Witnesses said Brooks was still alive after the shooting, with one man describing her as gasping for air. He also said he ran outside after hearing gunshots and saw her children crying inside the car.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said the two drivers did not know each other. The van driver called 911 and cooperated with investigators. No charges have been announced as the case remains under review.
Child Protective Services has placed the children with family members while investigators continue gathering evidence. Brooks’ mother said the family is heartbroken and still trying to understand what led to the shooting.