SAD NEWS: A 31-year-old dad shot and killed his 8 young kids…see more

On April 19, 2026, 31-year-old Shamar Elkins allegedly killed eight children during a shooting that unfolded across multiple homes in the city’s Cedar Grove neighborhood. Seven of the children were reportedly his own, while the eighth was a young cousin. Two adult women were also wounded.

The tragedy became one of the deadliest mass shootings in the United States in more than two years.

Eight Young Lives Lost

The children ranged in age from 3 to 11.

The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office identified the victims as Jayla Elkins, 3; Shayla Elkins, 5; Kayla Pugh, 6; Layla Pugh, 7; Markaydon Pugh, 10; Sariahh Snow, 11; Khedarrion Snow, 6; and Braylon Snow, 5.

For relatives and neighbors, the victims were not simply names in a news report. They were children who went to school, played with friends, celebrated birthdays, and were part of families that are now facing an unimaginable absence.

The Violence Began With a Domestic Disturbance

Authorities said the shooting began early Sunday morning as a domestic disturbance.

According to reports, Elkins allegedly shot a woman at one residence before going to another nearby home where the children were located. Police said the children were killed inside that home.

The violence then continued as Elkins allegedly fled the area in a stolen vehicle.

Police pursued him into neighboring Bossier Parish, where officers ultimately shot and killed him.

The investigation into the shooting and the police use of force remains separate, with authorities examining the circumstances surrounding the officers’ response.