Arrest Made in Gun Case Linked to Tragic Louisiana Child Deaths

Charles Ford, a 56-year-old from Shreveport, has been arrested in connection with the mass shooting executed by Shamar Elkins. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana reports that Ford owned the firearm used by Elkins to carry out the attack.

Ford and the Missing Firearm

Ford claims that Elkins stole the gun from his truck weeks before the incident. He suspected Elkins because he was one of a few people who rode with him around March 9 when Ford noticed the weapon was missing.

Despite confronting Elkins about it, Ford reported he let the issue go after Elkins became defensive. Investigators traced the firearm to Ford as part of their investigation into the mass shooting.

Charges Against Charles Ford

Ford, a convicted felon, was charged for possessing a firearm and lying to federal agents. Initially denying ownership of the gun after being approached by investigators, Ford later admitted to keeping it under his seat.

The U.S. Attorney emphasized their goal is to hold those involved accountable as part of ongoing investigations to bring closure to affected families.

The Aftermath of Shamar Elkins' Shooting Spree

Shamar Elkins died amid a police pursuit following an attack at reportedly his wife’s home. Police are uncertain if his death was due to officers or self-inflicted injury. The rampage left several family members dead and injured.

Elkins previously pleaded guilty in 2019 for illegal weapon use and was on probation prohibiting him from owning firearms. It remains unclear if this restriction was effectively enforced in this case.