Eight children were killed in a mass shooting in Shreveport, media reported Sunday (April 19), citing local police.
Police Chief Wayne Smith said the incident happened around 6 a.m., with the victims ranging in age from one to about 14 years old.
Authorities said a total of 10 people were shot in the incident. The crime scene spanned three different locations, complicating the investigation and response.
“This is a large-scale scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” Smith said, emphasizing the scale and severity of the violence.
Some of the children shot were believed to be related to the suspect, police said, pointing to a possible domestic context behind the attack.
Suspect killed after police chase
Officials confirmed that the suspected shooter was fatally shot by police after a vehicle chase that spread into Bossier City. No law enforcement officers were injured in the clash.
The sequence of events – from the initial shooting to the pursuit and final confrontation – is now central to the investigation.
The state police took over the investigation
Louisiana State Police said its detectives were asked by local authorities to lead the investigation. Officials continue to piece together the timeline and circumstances surrounding the shooting.
State police confirmed in a statement that no officers were injured and urged the public to come forward with any information, photos or videos that could help investigators.
The community is in shock
The incident left the local community in shock and the authorities described it as one of the most serious cases they had come across. More details are awaited as investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
