Shreveport police and city leaders are continuing an active response after a domestic-violence-related attack in the Cedar Grove neighborhood left eight children dead early Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Police say the victims were located across four separate locations, which investigators are treating as distinct crime scenes. Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said the children ranged in age from 18 months to 14 years old.
Officials report additional survivors were injured. Two women remain hospitalized with gunshot wounds to the head, and a young boy was injured while escaping.
What authorities are doing now
Securing and processing four crime scenes: Detectives and forensic personnel are working each location to document evidence, collect forensic material, and confirm timelines. Police have established scene security to protect evidence and limit public access while work continues.
Coordinating the investigation: Investigators are continuing interviews and evidence review across the multiple locations involved. Police have stated the incident appears domestic in nature; no further motive information has been released.
Incident stabilization and public safety: Police say the suspect fled the initial locations and was later confronted during an attempted carjacking. According to Chief Smith, officers fired and the suspect was killed at the scene of the attempted carjacking. Authorities are emphasizing that the immediate threat has been neutralized while the broader investigation remains ongoing.
Support for surviving victims and affected families: City officials said the focus is also on connecting survivors and families to medical care and victim-services support. Residents are being directed to rely on official city and police updates as names and additional details are handled through investigative and notification processes.
Community resources and next steps
Mayor Tom Arceneaux addressed the city in a Sunday news conference, calling it a difficult day for Shreveport. Officials said additional information will be released as investigators confirm facts across the four locations.
Public safety guidance
Domestic violence situations can escalate quickly. Anyone experiencing abuse, threats, or immediate danger should call 911. For non-emergency help and safety planning, residents can contact local domestic violence service providers, shelters, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233; thehotline.org). Those seeking trauma support can also contact the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate emotional support.
This story will be updated as Shreveport police and city officials release verified information about the investigation and available community services.