Tragedy Strikes in Shreveport: Eight Children Killed in Domestic Shooting

Mon Apr 20 2026 08:01:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

In a shocking incident in Shreveport, Louisiana, a 31-year-old man, Shamar Elkins, allegedly murdered eight children, including seven of his own, during a domestic dispute. The tragedy unfolds as the community mourns the loss of young lives.

A horrific shooting in Shreveport has left eight children dead, including seven from the same family. The suspect, Shamar Elkins, engaged in a domestic dispute that escalated into violence. Witnesses and officials are grappling with the severity of the tragedy. The children, aged 3 to 11, were described as joyful and friendly by family members. Elkins has a history of firearm issues and was involved in a separation from his wife. The incident marks the deadliest shooting in the U.S. since January 2024.

SHREVEPORT, La. (RTW News) — In an unimaginable act of violence, Shamar Elkins, a 31-year-old man, has been accused of killing eight children, including seven from his own family, in a Shreveport, Louisiana neighborhood. This tragic event marks the deadliest mass shooting in more than two years in the United States.

City officials are reeling from the event, urging the community to come together in prayer and support for the victims. This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had, stated Mayor Tom Arceneaux during a press conference held outside the scene of the shooting.

Heartbroken community members gathered at the location, leaving flowers and lighting candles in memory of the young victims during a memorial vigil held later in the day. Local resident Kimberlin Jackson shared her sorrow, emphasizing the preciousness of life, especially for children.

Details of the Attack

Authorities report that the violence began early Sunday before sunrise when Elkins shot a woman at a residence nearby before moving to a second location where he killed seven children and wounded another. The ages of the children ranged from 3 to 11, described by friends and family as happy kids, very friendly, very sweet. One child survived by jumping off a roof in an escape attempt.

The first responders faced a harrowing scene upon their arrival, as shared by State Rep. Tammy Phelps, who expressed her disbelief at the brutality of the attack.

Caddo Parish Coroner’s office confirmed that the children were all related to Elkins, with some being his own. They were reportedly at one house during the incident, and it was revealed he was in the process of separating from his wife, raising tensions that may have contributed to this horrific act.

In a subsequent police pursuit, Elkins was fatally shot after confrontation with law enforcement. Authorities clarified that this incident was contained within the family circle, emphasizing its domestic nature.

The tragic event has sparked national outrage and brought back discussions about domestic violence and firearm safety policies. Authorities and community leaders continue to call for action and support systems to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.

As the community mourns, people like Crystal Brown, a cousin of one of the victims, reflect on the senseless loss of young lives and the long-lasting impact of this tragedy on Shreveport.