CONDOLENCES: Expresses the condolences of the House of Representatives on the tragic loss of eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Roy Adams and 102 co-sponsors

Louisiana House expresses condolences and memorializes eight named children, honoring their kindness and impact while noting no laws or funding are created.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.

Purpose and intent

Expressions of condolence: This House Resolution expresses heartfelt condolences from the Louisiana House of Representatives for the tragic loss of eight children in Shreveport, Louisiana, on April 19, 2026.

Name and circumstances: The resolution memorializes eight named children from Shreveport and local schools, detailing their ages, schools, and brief personal notes about their character and kindness.

Communal regard: The measure serves to publicly acknowledge the community impact of the tragedy and offer sympathies to the families and loved ones.

Key provisions and changes

Formal expression: The resolution states that the House of Representatives expresses condolences to the families and those affected by the deaths.

Personal tributes: It includes biographical sketches for eight children, noting aspects such as school enrollment, character traits, and personal anecdotes (e.g., kindness, faith, love of learning).

Closing sentiment: The resolution ends by extending sincere wishes for comfort to the families and loved ones.

Who or what is affected

Primary stakeholders: The families and friends of the eight children who passed away; the students and staff at the named schools (Linwood Public Charter School, Summer Grove Elementary School, Johnnie Cochran Head Start Center) and the Shreveport community.

Legislative impact: The measure does not create new laws, funding, or programs. It is a ceremonial/expressive resolution adopted by the House.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduction and sponsors: The bill is introduced as a House Resolution (HR 257) with multiple sponsors and co-sponsors.

Action history: The latest listed step is “Read by title” on May 8, 2026, indicating it advanced through the standard consideration process in the House.

Nature of measure: As a memorial/condolence resolution, it does not amend statutes or allocate resources; its effect is symbolic and commemorative.

Notable details

Names of the eight children honored: Layla Pugh, Kayla Pugh, Shayla Elkins, Jayla Elkins, Sariahh Snow, Khedarrion Snow, Braylon Snow, and Mar'Kaydon Pugh.

Schools referenced:

Linwood Public Charter School (Layla Pugh and Kayla Pugh; Layla in 2nd grade, Kayla in 1st grade)
Linwood Public Charter School (Mar'Kaydon Pugh; 4th grade)
Summer Grove Elementary School (Sariahh Snow; 4th grade; Khedarrion Snow; Kindergarten)
Johnnie Cochran Head Start Center (Braylon Snow; Pre-K)

Tone: The resolution emphasizes the children's positive traits, their impact on peers and staff, and the enduring memory of their lives.

This summary captures the bill’s ceremonial purpose, the individuals named, the affected communities, and the procedural status, noting that no regulatory or fiscal changes are embedded in this resolution.

Bill