Woman and child jumped off roof to escape deadly Louisiana shooting

During a violent shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana, a mother and child fled from a rooftop to avoid being harmed, according to authorities. The incident occurred at 05:55 CDT (11:55 GMT) on Sunday, when emergency personnel were called after a caller described being “on top of the house” while the suspect stayed inside. Police confirmed that eight children were killed, including seven of the suspect’s own offspring and one cousin. The suspect, identified as Shamar Elkins, was later found dead after a confrontation with officers, though the exact cause of his death remains uncertain.

Two adult women, one of whom was the children’s mother, were also wounded in the attack and are recovering in hospital. A ninth child was taken to the emergency room after leaping from the roof during the escape. The victims ranged in age from 3 to 11, as reported by the Caddo Parish coroner’s office. Their identities were confirmed by the mothers, who listed the names: 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).

“Minutes after the initial call, the caller on the roof told us she and her children had fled to the backyard,” said Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith.

Later, officers were informed of a second attack at another home. A different emergency caller recounted that “her boyfriend had shot her, taken her three children, and fled the scene.” Following this, reports of a carjacking emerged, leading police to believe the missing children might be in the vehicle. At 06:29, the suspect was located and engaged in a gunfight with responding officers, during which he was killed. No children were found inside the car at the scene.

Chief Smith noted that the weapon used was an assault-style firearm, but its origin is still under investigation. He stated, “All evidence and indications are that this erupted as a domestic dispute.” The suspect had a criminal record, though details were not immediately released. Police also mentioned awareness of a pending divorce and a court appearance for the suspect on Monday.

Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn highlighted the recent opening of a domestic violence center in the city, just 10 days prior to the tragedy. “I don’t believe any of us could have imagined that only days later our community would be shaken by the most heart-breaking event we have ever witnessed,” he remarked. Officials emphasized the need for greater efforts to address domestic violence, as the incident underscores the devastating impact of such disputes.

The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the motive behind the attack. Survivors’ identities and their ties to the suspect have not been disclosed, but both are in stable condition. The community now reflects on how to prevent future tragedies, with the recent domestic violence center seen as a potential step forward.