Authorities: 8 children killed in domestic shootings in NW Louisiana

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(The Center Square) – Eight children were killed early Sunday in domestic-related shootings at three Shreveport homes, authorities said.

Shreveport Police Department spokesman and public affairs officer Chris Bordelon said at a morning news conference that a total of 10 people were shot, of which eight, all children, were killed. Two adult women who also were shot are in critical condition.

The lone suspect then hijacked a car and led police on a chase into Bossier Parish, where he was shot and killed, authorities said.

Bordelon said the victims range in age from 1 to 14 years old. Some of them were related to the suspect.

“This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” Bordelon said.

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said officers were still investigating the details and the motive for the fatal shootings and asked the community for patience.

“I just don’t know what to say, my heart is just taken aback,” Smith said. “I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”

Mayor Tom Arceneaux said the families of the victims are hurting and he asked the community for their prayers.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said in a statement that the details remain under investigation.

“Multiple law enforcement agencies are investigating this tragic situation," Murrill said. "We do not yet know all the details, but I am deeply saddened by the senseless loss of life. I’m praying for the victims and their family members in the wake of this devastating violence.”

The shootings occurred on 79th Street in an area called Cedar Grove, among the most dangerous in Shreveport. Several murders have occurred in the area previously.

Shreveport has seen 15 murders so far this year, including the eight from Sunday.

Smith has repeatedly told the Shreveport City Council that domestic violence is a major issue facing the city. As other crime statistics were dropping, domestic violence incidents had been rising.