SHREVEPORT, La. (AP) — In a harrowing mass shooting that has left the community reeling, a man reportedly killed eight children, including seven of his own, and wounded two women in a neighborhood in Shreveport, Louisiana. This shooting is noted as the nation’s deadliest in over two years.
At a somber news conference outside the residence, authorities expressed their shock and grief over the tragic situation. Mayor Tom Arceneaux remarked, “This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had.” Mourners have gathered outside the single-story house to pay tribute, laying flowers and lighting candles during a prayer vigil.
Early estimates indicate that the violence commenced before sunrise on Sunday. Law enforcement reported that the shooter began by targeting a woman in one home before proceeding to a second location where seven children were killed. Of the victims, ages ranged from 3 to 11 years old. One child was found dead on the roof, having attempted to escape, while another who jumped off the roof is now hospitalized and expected to survive.
The gunman, identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, died after engaging in a police pursuit, during which officers opened fire on him. Investigators believe the incident was entirely domestic in nature. Elkins reportedly had a criminal history including a firearm-related arrest in 2019 but was not known to have any previous domestic violence allegations.
The community is left in shock and mourning, as local resident Kimberlin Jackson expressed the heart-wrenching sentiment felt by many, saying it makes one want to hug their children and remind them that they are loved. The city of Shreveport, home to approximately 180,000 residents, now faces the aftermath of this unspeakable loss.
