Authorities say the man killed two women, then seven of his own children and one of their cousins.
Shreveport mourns children shot dead in domestic violence incident
Shreveport residents gathered Monday (April 20) to remember the eight children shot and killed in a domestic violence dispute on Sunday (April 19). “All we can do now is raise awareness of domestic violence, stop it at its roots, and make sure people are aware of all the resources surrounding domestic violence,” Shreveport City Councilman Alan Jackson said.
SHREVEPORT, La. – Mourners gathered to pay their respects during a mass funeral for the eight children killed by a gunman in April in a mass shooting that sparked waves of grief across the city.
Authorities say the man killed two women, then seven of his own children and one of their cousins. He died after a police chase. Shreveport is located in northwestern Louisiana near the Texas-Arkansas border.
A hearse was parked in front of the church, and mourners passed photos of the children: Jayla Elkins, 3, Sheila Elkins, 5, Kayla Pugh, 6, Layla Pugh, 7, Markedon Pugh, 10, Sariah Snow, 11, Kedarion Snow, 6, and Braylon Snow, 5.
Mourners dressed in pink, purple and blue hugged each other inside Summer Grove Baptist Church before the service, which featured a gospel choir and prayers from faith leaders. The open casket was lined with photos of them and their favorite characters, including Lilo and Stitch with angel wings. Mourners also held a coronation ceremony, where a tiara or crown, symbolizing eternal life, was placed over the body.
“Their presence was a gift. They were kind, vibrant and full of promise,” said Shreveport Mayor Tom Arsenault, who read their names aloud. “Their absence is now deeply felt.”
Religious leaders who spoke at the service thanked God for the gift of the children’s lives and said they felt safe knowing they were now with God. Authorities said Shamar Elkins began the assault while he was separated from his wife, and asked community members to consider the impact of domestic violence across the city.
Community members also remembered the children at a memorial service on May 8, opening their caskets and placing flowers adorned with stuffed Disney characters.
