Authorities in Colorado have arrested and charged 27-year-old Khayla Dawson, a former collegiate and Olympic trial shot put athlete, in connection with the murder of Uber driver Jeremy Campbell, 38, of Colorado Springs.

The shocking incident occurred in October 2025 and has left the local community stunned.

According to the Colorado Springs Police Department, Dawson allegedly ordered an Uber late in the evening, telling investigators she “felt cooped up” and wanted to go for a “joy ride.”

The driver assigned to pick her up was Jeremy Campbell — a 38-year-old husband and father who worked for Uber to support his family while managing limited mobility from partial paralysis.

Once inside Campbell’s vehicle, investigators say Dawson brought with her a large butcher knife from her apartment.

During the ride, she allegedly attacked Campbell from the back seat, stabbing him multiple times.

Authorities believe Campbell tried to defend himself but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

Police allege that Dawson then drove Campbell’s vehicle to a nearby rural area, where she dumped his body in a field before returning to her apartment in the stolen car.

Upon arriving home, she reportedly hid Campbell’s wallet and the car’s key fob inside a box of dryer sheets, attempting to conceal evidence.

When Campbell failed to return home, his family reported him missing. His body was discovered the following day in a field on the outskirts of Colorado Springs. Detectives traced the vehicle’s GPS data and quickly identified Dawson as the last passenger he had transported.

Upon questioning, Dawson initially claimed that Campbell had attempted to assault her, stating that she acted in self-defense.

However, investigators found no evidence supporting her account. Instead, the forensic evidence and timeline of events reportedly point toward a premeditated act.

Authorities also confirmed that Dawson had no prior relationship or connection with Campbell before ordering the ride.

Khayla Dawson has been formally charged with:

• First-Degree Murder
• Aggravated Robbery
• Tampering with Physical Evidence

She remains in custody at the El Paso County Jail without bond pending her preliminary hearing.

Jeremy Campbell was a well-loved member of his community — described by friends and family as a devoted father and hardworking individual who overcame physical challenges to provide for his loved ones.

He had limited mobility due to a prior medical condition but continued to work full-time as an Uber driver to support his two young children.

The murder has sparked outrage and disbelief across Colorado Springs, with community members organizing vigils and fundraisers in memory of Campbell.

A family spokesperson shared in a statement:

“Jeremy was a kind, patient, and loving person who would have done anything for his family. His life was senselessly taken by an act of pure violence. We are devastated and praying for justice.”

The Colorado Springs Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office continue to investigate, with prosecutors indicating that the case will be pursued as a premeditated homicide.

Officials are urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation progresses, and they have assured Campbell’s family that “every effort will be made to bring the perpetrator to justice.”