SHREVEPORT, Louisiana — A man has killed eight children, including seven of his own, and wounded two women in a domestic shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana, before fleeing the scene and being shot dead by police, authorities said.
The victims have been 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.
Police said the attack began around 05:00 local time (10:00 GMT) on Sunday at a residential property, where the suspect opened fire on children inside the home. The victims included siblings and a cousin, aged between three and 11, according to the Caddo Parish coroner’s office.
After the shooting, the suspect fled the scene in a stolen vehicle, prompting a police chase that ended when officers fatally shot him. Authorities identified the gunman as Shamar Elkins.
Two adult women, including the children’s mother, were also shot and remain in critical condition in hospital. A ninth child survived after escaping the home by jumping from the roof during the attack.
Police spokesperson Chris Bordelon said investigators believe the suspect acted alone. “We do believe him to be the only individual that fired gunshots at these locations,” he said at a press briefing.
Officials have not yet established a motive for the attack.
Residents in the neighbourhood described shock and disbelief. Mack London, a long-time resident, told US media he had lived in the area for decades, saying: “Nothing like this has ever happened on this street.”
Authorities say investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attack are ongoing.
