Daijiworld Media Network - Louisiana
Louisiana, Apr 22: A 56-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the firearm used in a mass killing that left eight children dead in Shreveport, after he allegedly failed to report the weapon missing for over a month.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Charles Ford has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and making false statements regarding the weapon used in the April 19 killings.
Authorities said the gun was used by Shamar Elkins, who allegedly killed eight children in a domestic violence incident before dying during a confrontation with police. Officials have not yet clarified whether his death was a result of suicide or police action.
Ford appeared in court on Tuesday, where he was appointed a public defender. A detention hearing has been scheduled for April 24 to determine whether he will remain in custody pending trial.
Officials said the case emerged as part of a broader investigation into how Elkins obtained the firearm. “Our law enforcement partners are investigating every angle of how this tragedy came to occur,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary Keller, adding that holding those connected to the weapon accountable may offer some measure of justice to the community.
Investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) revealed that the weapon — a .22-caliber Mossberg 715P rifle — was originally purchased by a woman in February 2025 and later given to Ford for safekeeping.
According to a criminal complaint, Ford initially denied possessing the firearm, citing his status as a convicted felon. However, he later admitted that he had kept the weapon under the seat of his truck.
Ford told investigators that he discovered the gun missing on March 9 and suspected Elkins had taken it, as he was among the few who knew its location. Despite confronting Elkins, Ford allegedly did not report the missing firearm to authorities.
Officials said such lapses contribute to gun violence. “Holding people accountable does not stop with the person who pulled the trigger but also includes those who give access to firearms later used in violent crime,” said ATF Special Agent Joshua Jackson.
If convicted, Ford faces up to 15 years in prison for illegal possession of a firearm and an additional five years for making false statements.
The case remains under investigation.