The Caddo Parish community is reeling in unimaginable grief following a tragic mass shooting that claimed the lives of Jayla Elkins, age 3; Shayla Elkins, age 5; Kayla Pugh, age 6; Layla Pugh, age 7; Markaydon Pugh, age 10; Sariahh Snow, age 11; Khedarrion Snow, age 6; and Braylon Snow, age 5 in the Cedar Grove neighborhood early Sunday morning, April 19, 2026. The victims—seven children and their cousin—were identified by the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office after being discovered at a residence in the 300 block of West 79th Street just before 6:00 a.m.
Authorities confirmed that all eight children were pronounced deceased at the scene. The heartbreaking loss has shaken families, neighbors, and the entire region, marking one of the most devastating incidents in the parish’s recent history.
The Victims Remembered
Those lost in this tragic event have been identified as:
- Jayla Elkins, age 3
- Shayla Elkins, age 5
- Kayla Pugh, age 6
- Layla Pugh, age 7
- Markaydon Pugh, age 10
- Sariahh Snow, age 11
- Khedarrion Snow, age 6
- Braylon Snow, age 5
Each of these children was a beloved son, daughter, sibling, and cousin—full of innocence, promise, and joy. Their lives, though tragically brief, leave behind lasting memories in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
A Community in Mourning
Residents of Cedar Grove and surrounding neighborhoods have been left stunned and heartbroken. Flowers, candles, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes have begun to appear near the residence as friends, family members, and strangers alike gather to grieve and pay their respects.
Community leaders have described the tragedy as an unbearable loss, particularly given the young ages of the victims. Vigils are being planned across Shreveport and Caddo Parish to honor the children and support their grieving families during this unimaginable time.
Ongoing Investigation
Multiple law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Officials have confirmed that autopsies have been ordered for all eight victims as part of the ongoing inquiry.
At this time, authorities have not released further details regarding possible suspects or motives. The investigation remains active and ongoing as detectives work to determine what led to this devastating act of violence.
A Year Marked by Tragedy
This incident marks the eighth through fifteenth homicides reported in Shreveport and Caddo Parish in 2026, underscoring a growing concern among residents and officials about community safety and violence prevention.
Forever Remembered
Though their lives were cut short far too soon, the names of Jayla, Shayla, Kayla, Layla, Markaydon, Sariahh, Khedarrion, and Braylon will not be forgotten. They are remembered not for the tragedy that took them, but for the love they brought into the world—the laughter they shared, the bonds they held with family, and the futures that should have been theirs.
As the community mourns, one message echoes throughout Cedar Grove and beyond: these children mattered, they were deeply loved, and they will forever remain in the hearts of those they left behind.
May they rest in eternal peace.
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