A Louisiana gunman killed at least eight children, ages one to about 14, in domestic shootings at two separate homes early Sunday (local time), the Associated Press reported.
Shreveport police say a total of 10 people have been shot in what is believed to be the nation’s deadliest mass shooting in more than two years. The gunman later died after a chase with officers who fired at the suspect, police spokesman Chris Bordelon said, adding that the gunman stole a car while leaving the scene and was being followed by police.
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Here’s what we know so far about the Louisiana shooting:
According to the report, some of the children who were shot were reportedly related to the suspect. While police have not released the shooter’s identity, they said the suspect was an adult male. Officials also noted they are still gathering details at crime scenes south of downtown Shreveport, two homes and a third location.
Bordelon said, “This is a vast scene, unlike anything most of us have ever seen.”
According to an NBC report, a child was among those killed by the deranged suspect and at least two women suffered gunshot wounds to the head but managed to survive. A young boy was also reportedly injured after jumping from the roof. The current condition of the injured remains unclear.
According to Shreveport Police, the shooting stemmed from a domestic dispute and the suspect attempted to flee.
A FOX19 NOW report, citing officials, said the shooting happened at three connected locations. The first took place on W. 79th Street, followed by the second on Harrison Street, both in Shreveport. A third incident was later reported on Brompton Lane in Bossier Parish.
Louisiana State Police said their detectives were asked by Shreveport police to assist with the investigation. In a statement, officials confirmed that no officers were injured in the law enforcement-involved shooting after a pursuit that continued into Bossier City Sunday morning.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have photos, videos or relevant information to come forward and share them with state police investigators.
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Officials, leaders react to tragedy
At a press conference outside the residence where one of the shootings occurred, officials, looking stunned, asked the community for patience and prayers as they went through several crime scenes. Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said, “I just don’t know what to say, my heart just goes out,” adding, “I can’t imagine how something like this could happen.”
Responding to the incident, Tom Arceneaux, the mayor of Shreveport, a northwest Louisiana city of about 180,000, said, “It’s a terrible morning.” He went on to say that this is a tragic situation, perhaps the worst tragic situation we have ever had.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry said in a statement that he and his wife were heartbroken. “We are deeply grateful to the police and rescue workers who are working tirelessly at the scene,” he added.
Mass shooting near the University of Iowa
Earlier today, several people were reportedly injured after a wild fight turned ugly near the University of Iowa campus. According to reports, a large scuffle broke out in a pedestrian zone in Iowa City at approximately 1:45 a.m. (local time) Sunday morning when arriving officers heard gunshots.
