A horrific tragedy in Louisiana has shocked the nation after Shamar Elkins killed seven of his children and his cousin before being shot dead by police during a car chase.
Police responded early Sunday morning in Shreveport, where they found eight children dead—ages 3 to 11—most shot in their sleep. His wife and another woman were also critically injured, and one child reportedly tried to escape.
Elkins was later killed by officers after attempting a carjacking. Authorities say the case is the deadliest mass shooting in the U.S. since 2024.
In the weeks before the attack, Elkins reportedly spoke about being overwhelmed by “dark thoughts” and told family members that some people “don’t come back from their demons.” He had also mentioned divorce and suicidal thoughts during a call with his parents.
Officials and relatives described the children as happy and innocent, deepening the shock and grief surrounding the tragedy.