Louisiana law enforcement officials are investigating a horrific domestic mass shooting that claimed the lives of eight children on Sunday morning. The victims, all under the age of 15, were discovered inside a residence following reports of a violent domestic disturbance.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect fled the scene shortly after the incident, leading police on a high-speed pursuit across several parishes. The chase ended when the suspect's vehicle crashed, and the individual was pronounced dead at the scene from what appeared to be a self-inflicted wound.
State police and local sheriff's deputies are currently working to establish the exact relationship between the deceased suspect and the young victims. Preliminary reports suggest the tragedy unfolded within a single household, marking one of the deadliest domestic incidents in the state's history.
Governor Jeff Landry issued a statement expressing profound grief and calling for a statewide day of mourning for the innocent lives lost. Community leaders have gathered near the site of the tragedy to offer support to grieving relatives and neighbors impacted by the violence.
Forensic teams remain on the scene to process evidence and determine the timeline of the events that led to the shooting. Investigators are also interviewing potential witnesses and family members to understand the motive behind such a devastating act.
The names of the children have not yet been released pending formal identification and notification of all next of kin. This mass shooting has sent shockwaves through the local community as residents struggle to comprehend the scale of the loss.
Resources for mental health support and crisis intervention are being deployed to the area to assist first responders and affected families. Officials have promised a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and the initial domestic call.
As the investigation continues, flags across Louisiana will be flown at half-staff to honor the eight young victims. Further details regarding the suspect's identity and the specific weapons used are expected to be released in the coming days.