Shreveport Resident Charles Ford Detained In Firearm Case Connected To Fatal April 19 Shooting

Shreveport has become the focus of a federal investigation after the arrest of a 56-year-old man, Charles Ford, in connection with a firearm linked to a mass shooting that killed eight children. Ford is now facing federal charges as authorities work to determine how the weapon was passed along before the deadly incident.

Federal prosecutors allege that Ford is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and providing false statements to investigators. The case is connected to a violent event on April 19, when Shamar Elkins carried out a mass shooting before being fatally shot by police during a later confrontation.

Investigators believe the firearm used in the attack can be traced back to Ford. According to officials, interviews with the original purchaser of the weapon led them to identify Ford as the person who had previously obtained it.

Court documents indicate Ford was prohibited from owning firearms due to prior felony convictions, including a 2000 simple robbery case and a 2011 domestic abuse battery conviction.

During initial questioning, Ford reportedly denied having the firearm. He later revised his statement, telling authorities he had kept the gun under his truck seat and suggesting that Elkins may have taken it without his knowledge. Ford also claimed that when he confronted Elkins, the situation became hostile and he chose to distance himself.

Officials have not stated that Ford was aware of any plans for the shooting. Prosecutors confirmed the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to examine how the weapon ultimately reached the shooter.

If convicted, Ford faces up to 15 years in federal prison on the firearm charge, along with additional penalties for making false statements. Authorities say the case is part of a broader effort to fully understand the chain of events leading up to the April 19 tragedy