8 Children Killed, 2 Others Hurt in Louisiana Mass Shooting
UPDATE: Father Identified as Gunman in Shreveport Mass Shooting
UPDATE — 4/19/26 at 7:10 p.m. ET: Authorities have identified the gunman as Shamar Elkins, the father of seven of the eight children who were shot and killed on Sunday, April 19, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
The two adults who were injured by gunfire were women, including the mother of the seven slain kids. Both women are listed in critical condition.
Police further clarified the victims ranged in age from 1 to 12 years old. Additionally, a ninth child was wounded jumping from a roof to escape Elkins. That child is expected to make a full recovery.
Original Story of Shreveport Mass Shooting
A tragic incident unfolded in Shreveport, Louisiana, early on Sunday, April 19, resulting in the deaths of eight children between the ages of 1 and 14, as confirmed by officials.
The suspected gunman, identified as Shamar Elkins, is deceased, with a total of 10 individuals being struck by gunfire in multiple homes.
Authorities suggest that the shooter may have had a familial connection to some, if not all, of the victims, labeling the incident as “domestic in nature.”
Shreveport Police Department spokesperson Chris Bordelon emphasized the complexity of the crime scenes and the need for thorough investigation due to the multi-location nature of the shootings.
While the names of the victims have not been released, Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux confirmed that some of the injured parties are currently receiving medical treatment.
The tragic events occurred at two neighboring homes and a third residence within the same neighborhood. The shootings were initially reported by a witness inside one of the targeted homes.
Following the shooting, the suspect escaped on foot before hijacking a nearby vehicle. Subsequently, law enforcement pursued the suspect, resulting in the shooter’s demise when officers fired upon the vehicle.
Although the suspect remains unidentified, authorities assure that his identity will be disclosed in due course. Louisiana State Police will lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death, given the involvement of a police officer in the incident.
Expressing shock and sorrow, Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith conveyed his disbelief at the tragic occurrence, assuring the public that thorough analysis of evidence from the crime scenes will be conducted to unravel the events of that fateful day.
Mayor Arceneaux echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the far-reaching impact of such a tragedy on the entire community.
State Governor Jeff Landry extended condolences to the affected families, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of law enforcement and first responders in managing the crisis.
According to Associated Press reports, this mass shooting marks the deadliest incident in the U.S. since a similar tragedy in a Chicago suburb in January 2024.
