    BOSSIER CITY, Louisiana (KTBS) -- A homeowner says a man accused of killing eight children in Shreveport came to his door likely seeking safety before dying in a confrontation with police Sunday morning. However, authorities have not determined whether officers killed the suspect or if he took his own life.
Shamar Elkins died after leading Shreveport police on a chase that ended at a home in north Bossier City, according to investigators. Officers made contact with him around 6:30 a.m. in the 400 block of Brompton Lane, and he was pronounced dead at 7:03 a.m. following an exchange of gunfire.
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The homeowner, Michael Mayence, said in a social media post that he had known Elkins since childhood and had served with him in the U.S. Army, describing him as a “former young soldier of mine.” He said Elkins may have come to his home looking for refuge.
Mayence said the two spoke the day before about personal struggles, including a possible divorce. When Elkins arrived Sunday morning, Mayence said he recognized his voice at the door.
According to Mayence, their conversation lasted less than a minute before Elkins “put the gun to his mouth” and fired. He said officers then shot in response, and Elkins was injured during the exchange.
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith confirmed that officers fired their weapons but said it remains unclear what caused Elkins’ death.
“We are not sure. There was an exchange of gunfire. It has not been determined yet what the exact cause of death was,” Smith said, adding that the Louisiana State Police are leading the investigation into the incident.
The Louisiana National Guard said Elkins served from August 2013 to August 2020.
Family members told investigators Elkins had been struggling with mental illness and ongoing domestic issues involving his wife. Authorities said two women were shot in the violence, including his wife, who survived.
Police said the confrontation followed a series of violent events in Shreveport, where Elkins is accused of fatally shooting eight children before carjacking an SUV and fleeing.
Louisiana State Police will determine the exact circumstances surrounding Elkins’ death.
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