The Cedar Grove massacre of eight children by one deranged person on Sunday April 19 was Shreveport’s most heinous crime and unfortunately was record-setting in a bad way.
But this past weekend was also a nadir in a different way.
Two people were murdered in cold blood after a high-speed accident, apparently caused by a high-speed chase by the murderer.
Another murder occurred after a gas station shooting and the shooter is fighting for his life after also being shot.
To round it out, a man was stabbed to death after a domestic dispute.
Shreveport-Caddo now has 34 homicides this year.
This violent spree is a statement, and it will undoubtedly become a campaign issue in the District Attorney, mayoral, and council races, perhaps even the Caddo school board races.
Many voices will discuss root causes and solutions.
Everyone should agree that there is too much violence, which sends a negative message.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.