Shreveport, Louisiana Officials Identify 8 Children Killed in Domestic Shooting, Confirm Timeline

On June 25, 2024, Shreveport, Louisiana authorities confirmed that a gunman killed eight children in a domestic violence incident before taking his own life. The victims, ranging in age from 18 months to 11 years old, were found at a residence in the 4000 block of Hearne Avenue. Among the deceased were seven of the shooter’s biological children and one stepchild. The gunman also shot and critically wounded his wife and another woman before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to the Shreveport Police Department, officers responded to a 911 call around 10:30 a.m. Local time. Upon arrival, they discovered multiple victims inside the home. The investigation revealed that the shooter had a documented history of mental health struggles and had recently sought treatment, though relatives reported he had discontinued care in the weeks leading up to the tragedy.

This incident marks one of the deadliest mass shootings involving children in Louisiana since 2023 and has reignited national conversations about access to mental health services, domestic violence intervention, and firearm safety in homes with minors.

Victims Identified by Authorities

The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office released the names and ages of the eight children killed in the shooting:

• Jayden Washington, 11
• Jayla Washington, 9
• Jaxon Washington, 7
• Jalynn Washington, 5
• Jace Washington, 4
• Jadyn Washington, 3
• Jaxson Washington, 2
• Jaliyah Washington, 18 months

Seven of the victims were the biological children of the shooter, identified as 32-year-old Deandre Washington. The eighth child, Jaliyah, was his stepdaughter. The shooter’s wife, identified as 29-year-old Keisha Washington, survived after being shot multiple times and remains in critical condition at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport. Another woman, a relative visiting the home, was also wounded but is expected to recover.

Timeline of Events Confirmed by Police

Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith provided a detailed timeline during a press briefing on June 26:

1. Approximately 10:15 a.m.: Deandre Washington arrived at the residence and began arguing with his wife.
2. 10:25 a.m.: He retrieved a firearm and opened fire, shooting his wife and the visiting relative.
3. 10:30 a.m.: He turned the gun on the children, firing multiple rounds in different rooms of the house.
4. 10:35 a.m.: A neighbor heard gunfire and called 911.
5. 10:40 a.m.: Police arrived on scene and found the victims.
6. 10:45 a.m.: Officers discovered Deandre Washington deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in a bedroom.

Ballistic analysis confirmed that all shots were fired from a single 9mm semi-automatic pistol legally purchased by the shooter in March 2024. No prior criminal record was found, but police noted multiple wellness checks conducted by child protective services in 2022 and 2023 following reports of domestic disturbances.

Mental Health History and Family Statements

Relatives told The Washington Post that Deandre Washington had been diagnosed with depression and anxiety in 2021 and had attended therapy intermittently. However, he had stopped taking prescribed medication and missed several appointments in early June 2024.

“He was struggling, but we didn’t suppose it would approach to this,” said his sister, Tamika Washington, in an interview with KSLA News 12. “He loved those kids. Something snapped.”

Mental health professionals emphasize that although most individuals with mental illness are not violent, untreated conditions combined with access to firearms and acute stressors—such as relationship conflict or financial strain—can increase risk in rare cases.

Context: Gun Violence and Domestic Shootings in the U.S.

This tragedy adds to a grim statistic: according to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 200 mass shootings in the United States in 2024 alone, defined as incidents where four or more people are shot or killed, not including the shooter.

Domestic violence-related shootings account for a significant portion of these events. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that access to a firearm increases the risk of homicide in abusive relationships by 500%. In Louisiana, which has consistently ranked among the top states for female homicide rates linked to intimate partner violence, advocates are calling for stronger enforcement of red flag laws and mandatory surrender of firearms during protective order proceedings.

Louisiana currently allows temporary removal of firearms under domestic violence restraining orders, but implementation varies by parish, and compliance monitoring remains inconsistent.

Community Response and Support Efforts

In the aftermath, Shreveport residents have gathered at the site of the shooting to leave flowers, stuffed animals, and handwritten notes. A vigil hosted by local churches drew over 500 attendees on June 27.

The Caddo Parish School District has deployed grief counselors to schools attended by the victims’ siblings and cousins. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed condolences via social media and announced state funding for expanded trauma counseling services in affected neighborhoods.

Nationally, organizations such as Everytown for Gun Safety and the Domestic Violence Hotline have urged the public to recognize warning signs of escalating abuse and to seek help through confidential resources.

Key Takeaways

• Eight children were fatally shot in a domestic violence incident in Shreveport, Louisiana on June 25, 2024.
• The shooter, Deandre Washington, also wounded his wife and a relative before dying by suicide.
• Seven of the victims were his biological children. one was his stepchild.
• The shooter had a history of mental health challenges and had recently discontinued treatment.
• Authorities confirmed the timeline of events through witness accounts, ballistic evidence, and 911 logs.
• The incident underscores the intersection of domestic violence, mental health, and firearm access.
• Community and state leaders are mobilizing support services and advocating for preventive measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the shooter legally allowed to own the firearm used in the shooting?

Yes. Deandre Washington had no felony convictions or active restraining orders at the time of purchase, allowing him to legally acquire the 9mm pistol from a licensed dealer in Shreveport in March 2024.

Are there warnings signs that could have prevented this tragedy?

Relatives reported that the shooter had withdrawn from family, expressed hopelessness, and stopped taking medication in the weeks before the shooting. Mental health experts note that sudden behavioral changes, especially when combined with access to firearms and domestic conflict, should prompt immediate intervention.

What resources are available for families experiencing domestic violence or mental health crises?

Individuals in crisis can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. For mental health support, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988.

How common are mass shootings involving children in the U.S.?

While mass shootings remain statistically rare, incidents involving children are particularly devastating. According to Everytown for Gun Safety, over 300 children under the age of 12 were killed in gun-related incidents in the U.S. In 2023, many in domestic settings.

As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the Shreveport Police Department’s tip line. The focus now shifts to healing, prevention, and ensuring that such a loss is never repeated.