A 31-year-old man accused of killing eight children during a violent incident in Shreveport has been identified as Shamar Elkins, who was reportedly related to some of the victims.
Elkins, a former member of the Louisiana National Guard, allegedly opened fire at a residence following a domestic dispute with his wife, Shaneiqua Pugh. Authorities said the incident occurred on Sunday morning and left multiple casualties.
According to the Shreveport Police Department, a total of 10 people were shot during the attack. Eight children were killed, while two adult women sustained injuries, one of them critically.
Police said the situation escalated after an argument at the family home, where the children were present. The violence reportedly spread across three locations, beginning at the residence, which is located near a Baptist church.
Investigators said the suspect fled the scene after the shooting, carried out a carjacking, and led officers on a brief chase before being fatally shot by police at a separate location. Authorities believe he was the sole gunman involved.
A police spokesperson described the crime scene as extensive, noting that the investigation is still ongoing.
Reacting to the tragedy, Tom Arceneaux described the incident as one of the worst in the city’s history, assuring residents that efforts are underway to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Military records show Elkins previously served in the Louisiana Army National Guard between 2013 and 2020 in communications and fire support roles, but had no deployment history.
Authorities say further details will be released as investigations continue.