Story By:  Ana Marjanovic, Sub-Editor: Michael Leidig, Agency:  Newsflash

A mother was shot dead as she shielded her son from a drive-by shooting outside in a takeaway food queue.

Tragic Martha Adrianna Alejo, 32, was killed by one bullet fired when a car pulled up and the occupant started threatening the person behind her in the queue.

As Martha shielded her 13-year-old son, a bullet fired from the car hit her in the chest and she collapsed outside the restaurant in Phoenix, Arizona state, USA, on 4th May.

Police found the critically injured mother outside the restaurant but she later died in hospital.

The police confirmed that no one else was hit in the incident, and that Martha – known as Adrianna to her family – was not apparently meant as a target.

Police spokesperson Warren Brewer said: “We know that violent crime in our city has been on the rise.

“No one should have to worry about being shot as they stand in line for food. And no child should have to see their mother gunned down for no reason.”

According to witnesses, as reported by local media, a car stopped in front of the restaurant and the gunman suddenly opened fire.

However, the victim’s brother Adrian Alejo said on GoFundMe: “Her life was taken yesterday by someone that was having an argument with the person behind her [in the queue].

“The other guy shot fire and my sister got in the way to protect her 13 year old son. Thankfully her son was ok but sadly is traumatized by all this.

“Adrianna was rushed to a nearby hospital and we’re not able to resuscitate her. Adrianna left two wonderful kids a father that loved her so much.”

Adrian told local media: “It is weird that she was the only one that got hit. There were more people. Why was she the only one?

“My mum woke me up while screaming that something was going on. I did not believe it, to be honest. I was like, I just hope she is at the hospital and maybe this was an error or something.”

No suspects have been identified yet. The investigation is ongoing.