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Heartbreaking funeral held for 8 children killed in Louisiana mass shooting

US May 11, 2026
BY TANIYA SINGH
The caskets of the eight children who were killed during a mass shooting last month, arrive for burial Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Forest Park Cemetery West in Shreveport, La. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
The caskets of the eight children who were killed during a mass shooting last month, arrive for burial Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Forest Park Cemetery West in Shreveport, La. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
Hundreds gathered at Summer Grove Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana, to honor eight children who were fatally shot in a devastating domestic attack on April 19. Authorities said the children were killed by their father, Shamar Elkins, before he was later fatally shot by police while fleeing. The emotional funeral service featured prayers, heartfelt tributes, songs, and a symbolic crowning ceremony as the grieving community remembered the young victims.
5 Photos
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Community gathers for emotional farewell
IMAGE SOURCE: AP PHOTO

Community gathers for emotional farewell

Residents, faith leaders, and local officials came together in Shreveport to mourn eight children killed in the tragic shooting. The funeral service at Summer Grove Baptist Church was filled with prayers, music, and emotional tributes.

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Crowning ceremony honors the children
IMAGE SOURCE: AP PHOTO

Crowning ceremony honors the children

Family members and loved ones placed crowns and flowers on each child during a symbolic crowning ceremony. The gesture represented eternal life and served as one of the most emotional moments of the funeral.

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Leaders speak about grief and faith
IMAGE SOURCE: AP PHOTO

Leaders speak about grief and faith

Pastors and public officials addressed mourners, offering prayers and words of comfort amid the tragedy. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux described the children as “gentle, vibrant and full of promise.”

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White caskets and touching tributes
IMAGE SOURCE: AP PHOTO

White caskets and touching tributes

The children’s white caskets were displayed with personal photos and decorations, including favorite Disney characters. Mourners wore pink, purple, and blue while paying respects to the young victims during the service.

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Tragedy that shook Louisiana
IMAGE SOURCE: AP PHOTO

Tragedy that shook Louisiana

The eight children were killed in an April 19 domestic shooting in Shreveport allegedly carried out by Shamar Elkins. Authorities said seven victims were his children, while another was their cousin, leaving the Louisiana community devastated.

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