The mayor of a northwestern Louisiana city in the United States has described the killing of eight children in a mass shooting across two homes as possibly the most devastating tragedy the community has ever faced.
Tom Arceneaux made the statement on Sunday while reacting to the incident, according to the Associated Press.
Authorities in Shreveport confirmed that a gunman killed eight children in what investigators have classified as a domestic-related shooting.
A police spokesperson, Chris Bordelon, disclosed that 10 individuals, ranging in age from one to about 14 years old, were shot during the attack.
Bordelon added that the suspect later died after a police chase, during which officers opened fire. The gunman had allegedly stolen a vehicle while fleeing before being pursued by law enforcement.
While officials have yet to release the suspect’s identity, they confirmed he was an adult male.
Investigators said multiple locations connected to the shootings are being examined, including two homes and a third site located south of downtown Shreveport. Some of the victims are believed to have been related to the suspect.
“This is an extensive scene unlike anything most of us have ever seen,” Bordelon said.
At a press briefing outside one of the affected homes, officials appeared visibly shaken as they urged the public for patience and prayers while efforts continue to piece together the full circumstances.
“I just don’t know what to say; my heart is just taken aback,” said Wayne Smith. “I cannot begin to imagine how such an event could occur.”
Reacting further, Arceneaux said, “This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had. It’s a terrible morning.”
