A Louisiana community came together on May 9 to pay their respects during an emotional funeral service for eight children tragically killed in a domestic shooting on April 19.
The service, held at Summer Grove Baptist Church in Shreveport, brought together local residents, faith leaders, and politicians to mourn the loss of seven siblings and their cousin, who were fatally shot by their father, Shamar Elkins.
The Tragic Loss
The victims were identified as Jayla Elkins, 3, Shayla Elkins, 5, Kayla Pugh, 6, Layla Pugh, 7, Markaydon Pugh, 10, Sariahh Snow, 11, Khedarrion Snow, 6, and Braylon Snow, 5.
The children were shot and killed at a Shreveport residence in the early hours of April 19. Authorities confirmed that Shamar Elkins, their father, was responsible for the attack before he was fatally shot by police during an attempt to flee.
The community mourned the loss of these young lives, many of whom had nicknames that highlighted their warmth and love, such as “Jaybae” for 3-year-old Jayla, “K-Mae” for 6-year-old Kayla, and “K-Bug” for 10-year-old Mar’Kaydon.
An Emotional Service
During the service, mourners honored the children by wearing pink, purple, and blue, placing flowers and crowns on their white caskets. Photos of each child, some alongside their favorite Disney characters, were displayed. A crowning ceremony was held to symbolize eternal life.
Pastor Kim Burrell and Bishop Bernard Kimble spoke of faith and healing, with Bishop Kimble telling attendees, “In spite of how you may be feeling today, we still need to know that God is still good.”
Politicians, including Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux, also spoke at the service, remembering the children’s potential and vibrant energy. “Their presence was a gift: gentle, vibrant and full of promise,” Arceneaux said. “Their absence is now deeply felt.”
Honoring the Children’s Lives
The funeral service highlighted the unique qualities of each child. Six-year-old Khedarrion Snow was described as having “a sweet and loving heart,” while 7-year-old Layla Pugh was remembered for her love of making TikTok videos and her “bright, intelligent, bold” personality. The tribute pamphlets included special memories and affectionate nicknames for the children, bringing a sense of joy to the somber event.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
Shamar Elkins, the father of seven of the victims and the cousin of the eighth, carried out the attack before fleeing the scene. Police reported that Elkins carjacked a man at gunpoint and attempted to escape. He was located and pursued by officers, who fatally shot him in Bossier Parish, about 30 miles from Shreveport.
In addition to the eight children, two women, including Shamar’s wife and girlfriend, were shot but survived. A 12-year-old girl also managed to escape by jumping from the roof, suffering multiple broken bones in the process.
Statewide Mourning
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry ordered U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims. “The children were the light of their homes and the heart of their classrooms,” Landry said in a statement. “They were full of promise and found joy in the simplest things, such as dancing, playing outside, and sharing laughter with family and friends.”
Domestic Violence Resources
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, assistance is available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support at 1-800-799-7233 or through thehotline.org. The hotline is toll-free, confidential, and available 24/7 in more than 170 languages.
