A man who previously owned the assault-style firearm believed to have been used to kill eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana, has informed investigators that he suspects Shamar Elkins stole it from his truck just weeks before the tragic incident. Charles Ford stated that he first noticed the weapon missing around March 9 and confronted Elkins, who was the father of seven of the deceased children.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Louisiana federal court, Ford became suspicious after having Elkins ride with him, having limited access to his truck during that period. When Ford brought up the missing weapon to Elkins, he noted that Elkins became “offensive,” prompting Ford to drop the conversation.
The court documentation details federal charges against Ford for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for making a false statement to federal agents. Initially, when approached by investigators post-attack, Ford denied any knowledge of the gun.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller remarked on the situation, stating, “Elkins' death means that our community will never see him face justice.” He expressed hope that prosecution of the individual responsible for the firearm used in the shootings could provide at least some comfort to the grieving Shreveport community.
Ford, who is expected to receive a public defender, has not yet secured a legal representative due to the rapid unfolding of events.
During the shooting, which took place across two houses before dawn, Ford was among those affected, with both Elkins’ wife and another woman sustaining injuries. The deceased children ranged in ages from 3 to 11 years old, marking one of the most devastating events in recent history for the local community.
