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Eight children were killed in a shooting early Sunday in the southern US state of Louisiana, in what police said appears to be a case of domestic violence.
The incident occurred shortly after 6:00 am (1100 GMT) in the city of Shreveport and is believed to be the deadliest mass shooting in the United States in more than two years, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.
Authorities said the gunman, an adult male who has not yet been identified, was fatally shot following a car chase and encounter with police.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux told CNN that it remains unclear whether the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound or from police fire. No officers were injured, according to state police.
Police Corporal Chris Bordelon said the “rather extensive crime scene” spanned three residences, where investigators are continuing to gather evidence.
The victims ranged in age from one to 14, with officials confirming that some of the children were related to the suspect.
“We do believe him to be the only individual that fired gunshots at these locations,” Bordelon said, describing the incident as a “domestic disturbance.”
Arceneaux said the gunman had some form of relationship with two women, who were also shot and remain in critical condition.
At one of the residences, nine children were present; one survived and is receiving hospital treatment for injuries that are not life-threatening.
Police said further details about the victims and the suspect would be released after the next of kin have been notified.
The United States continues to face persistent gun violence, with thousands of fatalities recorded annually.
