Two Dead, Six Injured in Shreveport Mass Shooting; Separate Overnight Nightclub Incident Adds to Violence
SHREVEPORT, La. — A night of terror gripped the city of Shreveport as two separate shootings—occurring just hours apart—left two men dead and at least seven others wounded, reigniting concerns over gun violence and public safety in the area.
The most severe of the incidents occurred around 1:01 a.m. on Saturday, September 20, when Shreveport Police responded to a mass shooting near Pierre Avenue and Poland Street. Officers arriving on the scene discovered a chaotic and heartbreaking scene: eight individuals had been shot, and two adult males were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to preliminary information, a large group of people had congregated in a vacant lot in the area when gunfire suddenly erupted. What should have been a peaceful gathering quickly turned into a scene of tragedy and confusion, with victims collapsing and bystanders scrambling for cover.
Emergency responders from the Shreveport Fire Department rushed six additional victims to Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport, while others reportedly arrived by private vehicles seeking urgent treatment. Their current conditions have not been publicly released, though authorities confirmed that the injuries range in severity.
Multiple Shooters Believed to Be Involved
In a Saturday morning press briefing, police stated that multiple shooters are believed to have opened fire, though no suspects have been publicly identified. Investigators are still working to determine the motive and whether the shooting was targeted or indiscriminate.
Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith said the department is confident that numerous witnesses were present and may hold key information. “With the number of people gathered, we know there are individuals out there who saw what happened,” said Smith. “We are urging them—begging them—to come forward and help us bring justice to the victims and their families.”
A Second Shooting Hours Later Outside Nightclub
Only hours after the mass shooting, at approximately 3:44 a.m., officers were dispatched to a second incident, this time in the 2000 block of Marshall Street, near a known nightclub. According to authorities, a man was walking to his vehicle when he was struck by gunfire in the leg.
The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to Ochsner LSU Health with what are described as non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators believe this shooting was isolated and are currently searching for a male suspect, though no further description has been provided.
The nightclub area was quickly cordoned off, and detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from surrounding businesses. Police have not confirmed whether the second shooting was connected to the earlier mass shooting.
A City on Edge
The back-to-back violence has rattled the Shreveport community and brought renewed attention to the city’s struggle with gun-related crime. Residents have taken to social media to express outrage, concern, and grief, calling for more action from city officials.
“This can’t be our normal,” said local activist Tyrone Davis, who has worked on anti-violence initiatives in Caddo Parish. “We’ve got two people dead, six more shot, and another victim within a few blocks just hours later. The community is hurting, and something has to change.”
Shreveport has seen a troubling rise in violent crime in recent years, particularly in neighborhoods like Allendale and Lakeside, which have long struggled with poverty, lack of opportunity, and gang-related activity. Law enforcement officials have acknowledged the challenges but continue to call for greater community involvement in solving these crimes.
Ongoing Investigation and Plea for Public Help
Both incidents remain under active investigation. The Shreveport Police Department has established a special task force to work around the clock on gathering leads, processing forensic evidence, and identifying those responsible.
No names of the deceased have been released pending notification of next of kin.
Police are urging anyone with information about either shooting to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Caddo Crime Stoppers by calling (318) 673-7373 or visiting their website. A cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
“The public’s cooperation is crucial in these investigations,” said SPD Public Information Officer Angela Sipes. “We understand people may be afraid, but we need your help. Silence protects the perpetrators and leaves families without justice.”
Community Response and Calls for Action
Local leaders and city officials have pledged to increase patrols in high-crime areas and to work with community organizations to prevent future violence. A candlelight vigil is being planned for Sunday evening near the site of the first shooting to honor the victims and show unity in the face of violence.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux issued a statement Saturday afternoon expressing his condolences and condemning the violence:
“We mourn the loss of life in our community and stand with the victims and their families. Our city cannot and will not accept this level of violence. We are committed to finding those responsible and holding them accountable.”
Conclusion
This latest string of shootings has cast a shadow over Shreveport, leaving behind grieving families, wounded survivors, and a shaken city. As police intensify their search for answers, residents are once again left wondering: how many more lives must be lost before the cycle of violence is broken?
For now, investigators press forward, seeking truth and justice—and hoping the community will stand with them in doing so.
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