In the early morning hours of April 19, 2026, a horrific act of domestic violence in Shreveport, Louisiana, claimed the life of 6-year-old Khedarrion Snow and seven other children. The tragic events unfolded across two homes in the Cedar Grove neighborhood, leaving a community in shock and mourning. The perpetrator was identified as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, the father of seven of the children who were killed.
The violence began around 5:55 a.m.
at a residence on Harrison Street, where Elkins shot and critically injured his ex-wife, Christina Snow, the mother of three of his children, including Khedarrion. Elkins then fled with his children to a second home on West 79th Street where his wife, Shaneiqua Pugh, and their four children resided. It was there that the mass shooting took place, resulting in the deaths of the eight children, who ranged in age from 3 to 11. Along with Khedarrion, the victims were identified as his siblings, 5-year-old Braylon Snow and 11-year-old Sariahh Snow, and their cousins, 3-year-old Jayla Elkins, 5-year-old Shayla Elkins, 6-year-old Kayla Pugh, 7-year-old Layla Pugh, and 10-year-old Markaydon Pugh. Shaneiqua Pugh was also shot and sustained life-threatening injuries.
Following the shootings, Elkins carjacked a vehicle and fled the scene. A police pursuit ensued, ending in a confrontation in Bossier City. After an exchange of gunfire with officers, Elkins died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The motive for the devastating attack was reported to be a domestic dispute, as Elkins and his wife were in the process of separating and had a court date scheduled for the following day.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the investigation led to two arrests related to the firearm used by Elkins. Charles Ford, 56, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and making a false statement to federal agents. Authorities allege that the firearm was initially purchased by a woman who gave it to Ford. Ford, a convicted felon, was legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. He initially denied having the weapon but later admitted to it, claiming he believed Elkins had taken it from his vehicle. Another man, Michael May, the owner of the home where Elkins was ultimately found, was also arrested and charged with illegally possessing firearms. May was reportedly subject to a domestic violence protection order that prohibited him from owning guns.
