Eight children aged three to 11 were killed in a shooting in Shreveport, Louisiana early Sunday morning. Two adult women were also shot and taken to the hospital, according to officials. 

Police were called to the 300 block of West 79th Street just before 6 a.m., police said. 

According to police, seven of the children were shot inside a home, while one was shot on the roof while trying to escape.

The gunman, identified as 31-year old Shamar Elkins, was killed by police after he fled in a carjacked vehicle, officials said. 

The shooting spanned three residences and appeared to be domestic in nature. Elkins was the father of seven of the eight children killed. Police said he was married to one adult victim.

Louisiana State Police are investigating the shooting of the suspect. 

“This is a tragic situation — maybe the worst tragic situation we’ve ever had,” Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux said at the news conference after the shooting. “It’s a terrible morning, and we all mourn for the victims.”

In 2023, the most recent year for which data is available, Louisiana had the second-highest gun death rate at 27.57 per 100,000; only Mississippi had a higher rate. In 2022, there were 119 domestic violence-related homicides in Louisiana, 69% of which involved firearms.

“Sharon and I are heartbroken over this horrific situation, and we’re praying for everyone affected,” Gov. Jeff Landry said in a post. “We’re deeply grateful to the law enforcement officers and first responders working tirelessly on the scene.” 

Editor’s note: This story was updated after authorities identified the victims.