Eight children killed in shooting in Louisiana
The suspected gunman was shot and killed by police following a chase.
SKY NEWS UK
Monday 20 April 2026 05:51, UK
Eight children between the ages of three and 11 have been killed in a mass shooting in Louisiana.
Local police, who responded to a call shortly after 6am, say they were shot in a “domestic incident” at different homes.
Shreveport police spokesperson Chris Bordelon said seven of the eight children who died were related to the gunman. Two women, including the gunman’s wife, were also shot and critically wounded.
The gunman, identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, died after a police pursuit that ended with officers firing on him, according to Mr Bordelon.
Councilman Reverend James Green consoles people outside the scene of the shooting. Pic: AP
Mr Bordelon said the crime scene extended across three locations, adding: “This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen.”
At a news conference outside a home where one of the shootings occurred, officials requested patience and prayers from the community.
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said: “I just don’t know what to say, my heart is just taken aback… I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”
The city’s mayor, Tom Arceneaux, said: “This is a tragic situation – maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had,” adding: “It’s a terrible morning.”
In a statement, state police said their detectives have been asked to investigate and that no officers were harmed in the shooting of the suspect.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said in a statement he and his wife were heartbroken.
“We’re deeply grateful to the law enforcement officers and first responders working tirelessly on the scene,” he added.