Eight children, including a one-year-old, were killed in a shooting in the US state of Louisiana early Sunday, according to the Associated Press. The incident occurred around 6 am local time in Shreveport, where a total of 10 people were shot.
The victims were between one and about 14 years old, and authorities said some of the children were related to the suspected gunman. Investigators are still working to piece together the sequence of events across what they described as a large and complex crime scene.
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said the shooting stemmed from a domestic disturbance. The crime scene spanned three separate locations, adding to the scale of the investigation. “This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” he said.
Police spokesperson Christopher Bordelon said the main shooting occurred on the 300 block of West 79th Street, with another related shooting on Harrison Street and a nearby residence where one of the victims fled after being shot.
The suspect fled immediately after the incident, carried out a carjacking near West 79th Street and Lynnwood, and was later tracked by Shreveport police, leading to a vehicle chase. The pursuit ended in Bossier City, where officers shot and killed the suspect. Authorities believe he was the sole gunman.
The Louisiana State Police said no officers were injured during the chase or the encounter. State police have since taken over the investigation at the request of local authorities, as officials continue to gather details, including the motive.
Calling it one of the worst tragedies the city has faced, Tom Arceneaux said, “This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had. It’s a terrible morning.”
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