Investigators are looking into how Shamar Elkins, a former National Guardsman identified as the gunman who killed eight children in Louisiana, got a gun despite an illegal firearms conviction on his record. The development came a day after the violence occurred in Shreveport, described as one of the worst tragic situations by Mayor Tom Arceneaux. According to Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith, the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating how Elkins obtained the assault-style pistol used in the shooting, which was categorized as a domestic violence incident. Elkins was previously arrested in 2019 and convicted of illegal use of a firearm, a conviction that likely prohibited him from legally owning firearms. Additionally, Elkins had recently sought mental health treatment at a local Veteran Affairs medical center.
Elkins, who was the father of seven of the eight children killed, also shot and seriously injured his wife and another woman believed to be his girlfriend. The investigation is ongoing to understand Elkins’ background and how he accessed firearms despite his illegal conviction.
Context: The article highlights the tragic incident in Louisiana where a gunman killed eight children and the ongoing investigation into the gunman’s access to firearms.
Fact Check: The article accurately reports the investigation into how the gunman obtained a weapon despite his illegal firearms conviction and includes statements from law enforcement officials regarding the case.
