On the evening of April 1, 2025, La’von Hall, 45, and her 22-year-old daughter, Ma’Laysia Martin, were killed in a drive-by shooting in Compton, California. The shooting happened about 7:05 p.m. at the intersection of Caldwell Street and South Central Avenue. Authorities say the women were stopped at a red light when a vehicle pulled alongside, the driver opened fire, and Hall exited the car before collapsing on the street. The victims’ vehicle continued across the intersection and struck a traffic signal pole. Both women were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department identified 41-year-old Donte Lamont Brown, described as Hall’s estranged boyfriend, as the suspect. Investigators say Brown approached the victims’ vehicle, fired multiple rounds, and then fled. He is considered armed and dangerous and is believed to frequent the Compton and Long Beach areas. A $20,000 reward has been posted for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

Family members and local officials called for justice and highlighted domestic violence as a factor in the case. Hall worked with youth and the elderly for the Los Angeles Unified School District; Martin was described as a talented young artist. A GoFundMe has been set up to help with funeral expenses and memorials.

Did anyone in the area see the vehicle or activity around Caldwell and South Central that evening?