At least eight children were killed and several others injured in a shooting in Louisiana on Sunday, in what authorities say was a domestic violence incident.
Police in Shreveport reported that officers responded shortly after 6 a.m. local time to a disturbance call. The suspect, identified as Shamar Elkins, allegedly shot a woman on Harrison Street before going to a residence on West 79th Street, where the eight children were killed.
According to police, the victims were between 1 and 14 years old. Seven of the children were Elkins’ own, while the eighth was a family friend.
Two women suffered serious injuries and are receiving treatment at a hospital, while a teenager was also hurt but is expected to survive.
Authorities said the suspect later carjacked a man at gunpoint near Linwood Avenue and West 79th Street, prompting a police chase that crossed the Red River into Bossier City.
The pursuit ended there, where officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect, who was shot and killed at the scene.
The Louisiana State Police is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. Early findings suggest the officers acted in accordance with department policy.
Police spokesperson Christopher Bordelon stated that investigators believe the suspect was the only individual responsible for the shootings.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux described the incident as “perhaps the most tragic situation we’ve ever faced,” calling it “a terrible morning.”
