A mass shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana, left eight children dead early Sunday morning after their father allegedly fatally shot seven of his own children and one cousin, police confirmed. The gunman, identified as Shamar Elkins, fled the scene in a stolen vehicle and later died following a police chase and shootout.
Authorities said the shooting began at about 5 a.m. during a domestic dispute involving Elkins and one of the two women shot, who police identified as his wife. A relative told The Associated Press both women were mothers of some of the children, and the couple had been arguing about an upcoming court appearance related to their separation.
After initially shooting the woman during the dispute, Elkins traveled to a different residence where he fatally shot eight children ranging in age from three to 11, according to the Shreveport coroner’s office. The victims were identified as Jayla Elkins, 3; Shayla Elkins, 5; Kayla Pugh, 6; Layla Pugh, 7; Markaydon Pugh, 10; Sariahh Snow, 11; Khedarrion Snow, 6; and Braylon Snow, 5.
Witnesses described hearing a “full-blown shootout” between police and the suspect outside the home. Neighbors reported chaos, with one recalling hearing multiple gunshots near their home before seeing officers ordering the suspect to surrender. A nearby resident’s security camera recorded the gunman fleeing and two gunshots being fired.
Local residents expressed shock and disbelief. Some described the gunman as withdrawn, while others had seen no signs of impending violence, noting children playing and normal activity the night before.
Why it matters
This incident is the deadliest mass shooting in the United States in more than two years and marks a tragic example of gun violence intertwined with domestic conflict. The targeting of children in such a brutal manner highlights ongoing concerns over family violence and firearm access.
Background
Mass shootings involving family members represent a significant portion of gun-related homicides nationally. The presence of domestic disputes often precedes such tragedies, underscoring the importance of intervention and support services. Louisiana has recently faced scrutiny over its gun laws and domestic violence prevention measures.
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