Crime
Children Killed in Shreveport Domestic Violence Mass Shooting Identified
The shooting was described as a “domestic disturbance” and is believed to have been committed by 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, who was killed by police during a chase
SHREVEPORT, La. โ Authorities have identified the suspect in a devastating mass shooting that unfolded early Sunday morning in Shreveport, leaving eight children dead and several others injured in what investigators describe as a domestic violence incident spanning multiple locations.
Shreveport Police confirmed the gunman as Shamar Elkins, who investigators say was the father of seven of the eight children killed.
According to police spokesperson Cpl. Christopher Bordelon, the violence began before sunrise when Elkins shot a woman at one residence.
He then traveled to a second home, where the majority of the killings occurred.
At the second location, eight children between the ages of 3 and 11 were shot.
Seven of the victims were found inside the home, while one child was discovered deceased on the roof, apparently after attempting to escape the violence.
The victims have been identified by the Caddo Parish Coronerโs Office as:
- Jayla Elkins, 3
- Shayla Elkins, 5
- Kayla Pugh, 6
- Layla Pugh, 7
- Markaydon Pugh, 10
- Sariahh Snow, 11
- Khedarrion Snow, 6
- Braylon Snow, 5
In addition to the children killed, two adult women sustained critical injuries, and a teenager was also wounded but is expected to survive.
One of the injured women is believed to be the mother of some of the suspectโs children.
Investigators stated that the incident appears to have stemmed from a domestic dispute.
Authorities noted that Elkins had a prior firearms-related arrest in 2019 but said there was no documented history of domestic violence involving him.
Following the shootings, Elkins fled the area, allegedly carjacking a vehicle at gunpoint, which led to a police pursuit into neighboring Bossier City.
During the pursuit, officers discharged their weapons.
Elkins was later confirmed deceased, though officials have not yet provided full details regarding the circumstances of his death.
โThis is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,โ Bordelon said, emphasizing the scale and complexity of the investigation.
Local officials expressed shock and grief over the tragedy. Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith described the incident as unimaginable, while Mayor Tom Arceneaux called it โa terrible morningโ and possibly one of the worst tragedies the city has ever experienced.
State and federal leaders also issued statements offering condolences and support to the victimsโ families and the broader community.
The Louisiana State Police have joined the investigation at the request of local authorities.
Officials are urging anyone with information, including photos or video related to the incident, to come forward and assist investigators.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to process multiple crime scenes and piece together the events leading up to the attack.
Crime
19-year-old Brianna killed in Lincoln shooting, suspect Tyler Benzel charged with first-degree murder
LINCOLN, Neb. โ Lincoln police have released additional information about a fatal shooting Tuesday evening that claimed the life of a 19-year-old woman identified as Brianna.
Authorities have identified 37-year-old Tyler Benzel as the suspect in the shooting. According to Lancaster County Jail records, Benzel has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the death.
According to Lincoln police, the incident began with a verbal and physical altercation involving Benzel’s wife, Brianna and other individuals.
Investigators said they believe the confrontation was initiated by Benzel’s wife. Police said Benzel later left his residence and approached the group.
Authorities allege that Benzel told the individuals to leave and made verbal threats before raising a firearm and firing at the group. Police said the confrontation and shooting took place away from Benzel’s property.
Officers arrived at the scene within moments and found Brianna suffering from a single gunshot wound.
Officers immediately began providing life-saving medical treatment at the scene. Brianna was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Police recovered a 9mm handgun at the scene. However, investigators said forensic testing is still required to determine whether the recovered firearm was the weapon used in the shooting.
Authorities said they are not currently aware of any other weapons being involved in the incident.
Police said Benzel was cooperative when officers arrived at the scene. Authorities also said Benzel and his wife did not know Brianna or the other individuals involved before the altercation.
Benzel’s wife has not been arrested or charged in connection with the shooting at this time.
The investigation remains active as detectives continue gathering evidence, including forensic testing of the recovered firearm.
Authorities have not released additional information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Benzel is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.