SHREVEPORT, LA — A large crowd gathered in northwest Louisiana to honor the eight children killed in a devastating April mass shooting that has left the city in deep mourning. The funeral brought together family, friends, faith leaders, and community members united in grief and remembrance.
Tragic Loss of Eight Young Lives
According to authorities, a gunman first killed two women and then seven of his own children, along with one of their cousins, in an attack that shook the community. The shooter later died following a police pursuit. Shreveport is located near the borders of Texas and Arkansas.
The children remembered at the service were:
- Jayla Elkins, 3
- Shayla Elkins, 5
- Kayla Pugh, 6
- Layla Pugh, 7
- Markaydon Pugh, 10
- Sariahh Snow, 11
- Khedarrion Snow, 6
- Braylon Snow, 5
Emotional Service at Summer Grove Baptist Church
A row of hearses lined the church entrance as people paid their respects. Inside Summer Grove Baptist Church, mourners dressed in pink, purple and blue embraced and shared sorrow before the service began. The ceremony included:
- A gospel choir
- Prayers from local faith leaders
- Open caskets adorned with photos and favorite characters like Lilo & Stitch
- A crowning ceremony where tiaras and crowns were placed on the children’s caskets to symbolize eternal life
Words from Community Leaders
Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux addressed the gathering, reading the children’s names and remembering their spirits. “Their presence was a gift: gentle, vibrant and full of promise,” he said. “Their absence is now deeply felt.”
Religious leaders also spoke of the children as cherished gifts of God and expressed hope that they are now at peace.
Remembering and Reflecting on Domestic Violence
Officials noted that the shooting occurred amid the suspect’s separation from his wife and urged the community to reflect on the broader impacts of domestic violence. Many in attendance called for increased support for families and greater awareness of how intimate partner violence can escalate with tragic consequences.
Earlier Memorials
The community also held a memorial service on May 8, featuring open caskets and floral displays topped with stuffed Disney character toys, highlighting the children’s innocence and the deep loss felt by their families and neighbors.
