SHREVEPORT, La. — A heartbreaking act of violence has left a Shreveport community grieving after a 16-year-old girl was fatally shot in the head during a chaotic early morning incident on Sunday. The shooting occurred amid a large gathering in a shopping center parking lot near 1727 North Market Street, just outside a smoke and vape shop.
According to the Shreveport Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 1:40 a.m. after reports of gunfire erupting in the area. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a chaotic and dangerous scene, with shell casings scattered across the road and evidence that shots had been fired from multiple moving vehicles.
A Life Cut Short
The 16-year-old victim, whose name has not yet been released due to her age and pending notification of extended family, was caught in the crossfire. She was struck in the head by one of the rounds during the exchange of gunfire.
Emergency responders from the Shreveport Fire Department quickly transported her to Ochsner LSU Health. Despite life-saving efforts by medical personnel, she was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.
“This is a devastating loss,” said a spokesperson for the Shreveport Police Department. “A young life was taken far too soon because of senseless gun violence. Our detectives are committed to finding the individuals responsible and bringing justice to the victim and her family.”
Gunfire Amid a Crowded Scene
The shooting reportedly broke out as multiple cars drove past the crowd gathered in the shopping center lot. Witnesses told investigators that people had been congregating there for hours, and the atmosphere shifted quickly from festive to fearful when shots rang out.
Initial reports suggest that the gunfire came from individuals inside several vehicles that passed through the area. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and gathering witness statements in an effort to piece together what led to the violence.
So far, police have not confirmed how many people were involved or whether the teen girl was an intended target or a bystander.
Community Outrage and Pleas for Information
The tragedy has sparked renewed calls for action against gun violence in Shreveport, particularly among young people. Community leaders and residents expressed their sorrow and frustration over the shooting, urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.
“This child should be planning her future—not becoming the latest victim of gun violence,” said one community advocate. “We need the community to speak up. Someone knows something.”
Authorities are urging witnesses or anyone with cellphone videos, dashcam footage, or other relevant information to contact the Shreveport Police Department or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (318) 673-7373.
Investigation Ongoing
Detectives are actively pursuing leads and working to identify the individuals involved in the shooting. They have not released any descriptions of suspects or vehicles at this time.
The name of the victim will be released pending confirmation by the Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office.
As investigators continue their work, the Shreveport community mourns the loss of a young girl whose life ended in unimaginable violence. Vigils and remembrances are expected in the coming days as her friends, family, and neighbors process the tragedy.
This is a developing story. Stay with local outlets for further updates.
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