A funeral service was held Saturday in Shreveport, Louisiana, for eight children who lost their lives in a mass shooting last month. The event, attended by faith leaders, politicians, and community members, took place at Summer Grove Baptist Church during Mother's Day weekend.
Details of the Tragedy
The shooting occurred on April 19 in Shreveport, where seven siblings were killed by their father, Shamar Elkins, who also murdered their cousin. The children ranged in age from 3 to 11 years old. Elkins used an assault-style weapon despite a prior felony firearms conviction from 2019. His wife, who was seeking a divorce, and another woman were wounded in the attack that spanned two houses. Elkins died after a police pursuit; authorities have not determined whether he was killed by officers or a self-inflicted gunshot. The investigation continues into the deadliest U.S. mass shooting in over two years.
The Funeral Service
The service began with a long procession of mourners passing by eight white caskets, each adorned with large photographs of the children, gold crowns, and bouquets of white flowers. A choir and individual singers performed throughout the ceremony. Bishop Bernard Kimble, senior pastor of Mount Olive Baptist Church, opened with remarks emphasizing faith. "In spite of how you may be feeling today, we still need to know that God is still good," he said.
Tributes to the Victims
The funeral pamphlet included heartfelt tributes to each child. Among them were 3-year-old Jayla Elkins, nicknamed "Jaybae"; 6-year-old Kayla Pugh, called "K-Mae"; and 10-year-old Mar'Kaydon Pugh, known as "K-Bug." Six-year-old Khedarrion Snow was remembered for his "sweet and loving heart," and 7-year-old Layla Pugh was described as "bright, intelligent, bold, and full of love," who enjoyed making TikTok videos with her siblings and cousins.
Messages of Comfort and Unity
Pastor and gospel singer Kim Burrell reminded attendees that "God is still on the throne," even amid tragedy. Shreveport Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor acknowledged that "there are no words sufficient to ease this pain," while Councilman James Green encouraged the congregation to "take off our funeral face" and celebrate the children's lives. Mayor Tom Arceneaux expressed condolences, saying, "May we honor them by carrying forward the gentleness, joy and love they so freely shared." Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry ordered flags to be flown at half-staff and issued a message stating the victims "were the light of their homes and the heart of their classrooms." Former U.S. Representative Gabby Giffords attended to show solidarity, and Representative Cleo Fields noted that "this pain is not just in Louisiana." Buses transported mourners to a graveside burial, and Bishop Kimble prayed for healing, concluding, "Help us as we move from this spot. Because we know, oh God, grief is only temporary."
