DOJ detains former convict linked to providing gun for Shreveport shooter

Mass Shooting in Louisiana: Arrest Made

On Tuesday, the Department of Justice announced that a 56-year-old man from Shreveport has been arrested in connection with a devastating mass shooting that occurred in Louisiana over the weekend.

Charles Ford, previously convicted and prohibited from owning firearms, is accused of being in possession of the rifle used by his son, Shamar Elkins, who allegedly shot and killed eight of his children. Authorities traced the weapon back to Ford and say it was used during the tragic incident that took place on Sunday.

Elkins, 31, reportedly fired shots inside their home multiple times before he was eventually shot and killed by police. Among the eight victims were seven children, ranging from 1 to 14 years old, identified as his own.

Along with charges for illegal possession of a firearm, Ford is also accused of misleading law enforcement regarding his ownership of the weapon, prosecutors have stated.

Joshua Jackson, ATF Special Agent in Charge, commented on the accountability for such violent incidents, emphasizing that responsibility extends beyond just the shooter to those who provide firearms that aid in these crimes.

The investigation, led by the ATF and Shreveport Police, focused on tracing the firearm. Authorities determined that Ford was the original purchaser of the gun and allegedly handed it over to Elkins.

Initially, Ford denied having the firearm when questioned by agents, but he later confessed that he had kept it under his seat and believed Elkins had taken it.

Ford could face as much as 15 years in federal prison for the firearm possession offense and an additional five years for filing a false statement.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller stressed the importance of holding accountable those responsible for enabling access to firearms used in such horrific acts. He noted that the death of Elkins means justice will not be served for the community, but bringing charges against the gun’s owner may offer some solace.

Military sources revealed that Elkins once served in the Louisiana Army National Guard. In addition to the eight children, he is reported to have shot other individuals, including the mother of the slain children, who is expected to survive.

Another woman is in critical condition, while a teenage victim sustained injuries that are not life-threatening. After the shooting, Elkins allegedly fled the scene, carjacked a vehicle, and led law enforcement on a chase that ended in Bossier City, where he was ultimately shot by police.