Police in Shreveport, Louisiana, are investigating a devastating mass killing after Shamar Elkins allegedly shot and killed seven of his children and their cousin inside their home before later being fatally shot by officers.
Authorities say officers responded early Sunday, April 19, 2026, to a domestic disturbance and found eight children dead, most shot in the head while they were asleep. The victims were identified as children aged 3 to 11. Elkins’ wife and another woman were also seriously injured, and reports say one child attempted to escape but was shot.
Police believe Elkins acted alone in the attack. Officials described the scene as one of the worst tragedies in the city’s history while investigators continue to determine a motive.
Elkins was later killed during a police pursuit after an attempted carjacking. Authorities said officers engaged him in Bossier Parish, where he was shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
Before the killings, Elkins reportedly showed signs of mental distress. In a Facebook post dated April 9, he prayed for protection over his mind and emotions, asking God to help him fight “negativity.” Just days before the tragedy, he also posted about taking his eldest daughter on a “one-on-one date,” a message now viewed as deeply unsettling in hindsight.
Officials and community leaders have expressed shock and grief as the investigation continues.