Mayor shares thoughts on arson that killed local children, National Guard for blighted apartment demolition

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux is speaking out following a tragic house fire that claimed the lives of two children on October 13th.

The mayor confirmed that the fire on Milton Street is being investigated as a possible arson. “These are being carried as homicides, and we want to bring those responsible to justice for the benefit of the family and their schoolmates,” he stated.

The two young victims attended Turner Elementary, a school community that has already experienced multiple losses this year. Arceneaux urged residents to show support for the family and to make sure their own homes are protected with working smoke alarms. He reminded the public that the Shreveport Fire Department offers free smoke alarms and installation services.

The mayor also addressed concerns about SNAP benefits potentially being impacted by a federal government shutdown. While the issue is beyond the city’s control, he encouraged families to seek help from local resources such as the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana if needed.

In addition, Arceneaux provided an update on ongoing discussions with the National Guard, noting that the city is exploring the possibility of using engineering units to help remove abandoned and unsafe apartment complexes that contribute to crime and arson.