A mum in Brazil has sacrificed her own life by placing herself in front of her drug-dealing teen son as he was confronted by armed criminals, resulting in both mother and son being shot dead.

Fernanda Carla Pereira Brandao, 41, and her 18-year-old son, Caio Brandao, were gunned down outside their home in the Brazilian municipality of Cariacica on the night of 21st March.

According to witnesses, the victims were returning home from Fernanda’s youngest daughter’s 14th birthday celebrations when two armed men approached Caio and pointed their guns at him.

An anguished Fernanda placed herself in front of the teen, reportedly shouting “not my son”. However, the duo opened fire, shooting dead Fernanda first, followed by Caio.

The emergency services were called and rushed to the scene. However, by the time they arrived, the pair were already dead.

The police subsequently arrived at the scene and reportedly seized pellets containing cocaine and crack, two bags containing 955 grammes (33.7 oz) of marijuana and a precision balance from the victims’ property.

Fernanda worked as a carer for the elderly and was reportedly much loved in neighbourhood of Santa Barbara, where she lived. She leaves behind five daughters.

The case is under investigation by the police, who believe the younger victim was involved in drug trafficking. At the time of reporting, no suspects had been arrested.

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