A man in Louisiana fatally shot eight children on Sunday in an incident that authorities characterized as domestic violence. He was subsequently killed by police after fleeing in a vehicle that had been carjacked, according to officials.
The suspect’s wife and a woman believed to be his girlfriend were also shot and sustained serious injuries during the incident, which took place at two residences in the early morning hours, as reported by Shreveport police.
The deceased children included three boys and five girls, aged between 3 and 11, according to the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office. Police had earlier reported their ages to be approximately 1 to 14.
Speaking to media, Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said, “I just don’t know what to say. My heart is just taken aback. I just cannot begin to imagine how such an event can occur.”
Also Read: Shamar Elkins chilling ‘demons’ conversation with mom, stepdad before Louisiana shooting;‘Wanted to take his own life’
Louisiana shooting victims identities revealed
Police have named Shamar Elkins as the shooter and the only suspect. According to police spokesperson Christopher Bordelon, he was the father of seven out of the eight deceased children. One of the children was identified as a cousin of the deceased.
The children 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, as per the officials.
Meanwhile, Shamar’s friend gave rare insights into his life and family.
Here’s what Shamar Elkins’ friend disclose regarding his family
Shamar Elkins appeared to be an ordinary resident of Shreveport. However, he had experienced his share of past controversies.
Chris Bordelon, a spokesperson for the Shreveport Police Department, said that they were familiar with Shamar due to his criminal background. He was apprehended in a firearms case in 2019. His offense involved discharging a weapon near Caddo Magnet High School, which resulted in an 18-month probation period. Recently, a friend from his time in the US Army informed Metro that the community in Shreveport believed Shamar Elkins had a loving family.
Shamar’s military friend also conveyed profound sadness regarding the unfortunate incident and suggested a potential reason that may have driven him to take such a drastic action. According to the friend’s statement to Metro, Shamar’s military experience, “They were a lovely family. Everyone knew them around Shreveport. I think the military just messed him up. He was left feeling like he had no support.”
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