Eight children killed in shooting in Louisiana named

SHREVEPORT, La. (NBC, KYMA) - Authorities in Louisiana are investigating a devastating act of violence which left eight children dead and two women critically injured.

Investigators say the violence unfolded early Sunday morning at two homes in Shreveport, where a man carried out a series of shootings authorities describe as a domestic violence incident.

Eight children, three boys and five girls ranging in age from three to 11, were killed.

They have been identified as Jayla Elkins, Shayla Elkins, Kayla Pugh, Layla Pugh, Markaydoh Pugh, Sariahh Snow, Khedarrion Snow, and Braylon Snow.

Officials say seven of the victims were the suspect's own children, while another was a relative.

Two women, identified as the suspect's wife and a second woman believed to have been in a relationship with him, were also shot and remain seriously injured.

Following the shootings, police say the suspect, identified as Shamar Elkins, fled the area in a carjacked vehicle.

Officers later located him, and he was killed following an encounter with law enforcement.