On Saturday, grieving families came together to say goodbye to eight children tragically killed in a shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana, last month. Most of the victims were killed by their own father in a pre-dawn incident.
The funeral, held at Summer Grove Baptist Church, featured a procession with eight white coffins. Pastor Kim Burrell delivered a heartfelt sermon, reminding everyone that “God is still on the throne” even amid such unimaginable loss.
During the service, Burrell expressed deep sorrow, questioning, “God, how is this fair? How can you do that?” He acknowledged that, despite the chaos, “this is the same God who healed you from troubles you didn’t want to discuss.” Yet, he added, “God doesn’t make mistakes.”
The shooter, Shamar Elkins, who was the father of seven of the victims, used an assault rifle in the attack on April 11. Despite a previous felony conviction, he had obtained a firearm. Sadly, two other individuals, including his wife, were also injured during the shooting, and the eighth victim was a cousin of the others.
Elkins met his end as he fled from law enforcement.
The funeral pamphlet provided a glimpse into the children’s lives, mentioning their nicknames and describing them as “kind and loving,” “bright,” and “bold.”
Stay informed about the tragic Shreveport shooting involving a father and his children.
City Council member Tabitha Taylor spoke, emphasizing that “words are not enough to ease this pain.” Councilor James Green urged attendees to see the funeral as a celebration of the children’s lives.
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arsenault offered condolences, encouraging residents to honor the memory of the children by continuing to spread kindness and joy throughout the community.
Louisiana Governor Tom Landry echoed these sentiments, reflecting on how the children were full of promise, deriving joy from simple things like dancing and playing, adding, “Their future was bright and held great promise.”
Throughout the service, attendees applauded the speakers, and the names of the victims were read aloud while white flowers and ferns adorned the caskets.
Federal investigators have charged two men in connection to the tragedy. Charles Ford faces charges for illegally possessing a firearm and for supplying Elkins with the assault-style weapon. Another individual, Michael Mayens, has been charged after authorities found multiple firearms in his home. An investigation is still ongoing.
