Shreveport Domestic Violence Shooting Leaves Eight Children Dead
A Louisiana community is reeling after a domestic violence shooting in Shreveport left eight children dead and several others injured early Sunday morning, according to authorities.
Police identified the gunman as 31 year old Shamar Elkins, who carried out the attacks across three homes before fleeing the scene. Officers with the Shreveport Police Department responded to reports of a domestic disturbance in the 300 block of West 79th Street just after 6 a.m.
Gunman Targeted Multiple Homes, Multiple Victims Injured
Authorities said Elkins first shot a woman at a residence near Harrison Street before moving to another home on West 79th Street. It was there that the children were killed.
Officials confirmed that Elkins was the father of seven of the eight children. The eighth child, described as a family friend, was shot and killed while attempting to escape on the roof. Another child jumped from the roof and survived.
The children ranged in age from 1 to 12 years old, including three boys and five girls.
In addition to the children, two women were shot and seriously injured. Police identified them as Elkins’ wife, who is the mother of seven of the children, and his girlfriend. A teenager also suffered non life threatening injuries.
In total, 10 people were shot during the incident. A 13 year old boy survived after escaping from the roof and is expected to recover.
Suspect Killed After Carjacking and Police Chase
After the shootings, Elkins fled the scene and carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint. Police pursued him into neighboring Bossier Parish, where officers fatally shot him.
Authorities confirmed he was the only suspect involved.
Investigation Ongoing as Community Reacts
Investigators say the shooting appears to be domestic in nature. According to family members, Elkins was in the process of separating from his wife and was scheduled to appear in court the following day.
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said the scale of the tragedy is difficult to comprehend.
“I just don’t know what to say. My heart is just taken aback,” Smith said. “I just cannot begin to imagine how such an event can occur.”
City Councilwoman Tabatha H. Taylor also addressed the community, calling for support and resources in the aftermath.
“This family and this community needs you,” she said. “Because how do we get through this?”
The shooting is being described as the deadliest mass shooting in the United States since January 2024. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the attack. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
