At least eight children killed in Louisiana mass shooting

At least eight children were killed in a mass shooting in the US state of Louisiana, in what authorities are describing as one of the most devastating incidents in recent memory.

The attack took place early Sunday morning (April 19) in the city of Shreveport, where a gunman opened fire across three separate homes.

According to police, the victims ranged in age from 1 to 14 years old. Several of the deceased children were reportedly related to the attacker.

Shreveport Police spokesperson Christopher Bordelon said the shooting also wounded at least 10 others. The suspect was killed when a police pursuit followed into neighbouring Bossier Parish and shot him while attempting to escape by car.

Authorities believe the attack may have stemmed from a domestic dispute, though the investigation remains ongoing. The identity of the gunman has not yet been released pending notification of family members.

Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux described the incident as “the most tragic in the city’s history,” while Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed deep condolences and called for prayers for the victims and their families.

US House Speaker Mike Johnson also reacted, calling the incident a “heartbreaking tragedy.”

Data from the Gun Violence Archive shows that, even excluding this attack, the United States has recorded at least 119 mass shootings so far this year, with 117 killed—including 79 children—and hundreds more wounds.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.