April 27, 2026 

Louisiana Domestic Violence Tragedy 

WASHINGTON, D.C. –  Doctors for America (DFA) is deeply saddened by the domestic violence-related shooting that took place in Louisiana on April 19th 2026. Domestic violence and gun violence are closely linked and impact millions of women, children, and families nationwide. This is another tragic example of how gaps in firearm safety legislation can lead to preventable loss of life. 

According to Brady, the presence of a firearm in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide for women by five times. Evidence based policies such as extreme risk protection orders (ERPO), also known as red flag laws, exist to help temporarily restrict access to firearms for individuals who are a risk to both themselves and others. These laws, have been shown to reduce firearm related suicide and homicide deaths. Unfortunately, Louisiana does not currently have such protections in place, having  previously rejected these red flag laws. 

Firearms continue to be the leading cause of death in children 1-17 years old. These deaths include unintentional injuries, caused by a firearm being unsecured and loaded when stored, often in the home, as well as homicides and suicides. Like in this case, the shooter is often known by the victim, underscoring the importance of safe storage and early intervention. 

Gun violence prevention is a public health crisis, and as such requires public health solutions. The research shows that solutions like ERPO laws work on a societal level, and there is also a need for early childhood violence intervention to prevent tragedies later in life. These include community violence intervention programs, trauma-informed early childhood support, and school-based education on conflict resolution and suicide prevention. Safe storage education and responsible firearm practices are also critical components of prevention. As such DFA supports efforts to pass laws, such as Ethan’s Law, to encourage safe storage and increase public awareness. 

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About Doctors for America:

Doctors for America (DFA) is a national nonprofit that mobilizes over 40,000 physicians and medical trainees to advocate for policies that improve the health of patients and communities. Through advocacy training and action at the state and federal levels, DFA works to expand access to affordable care, strengthen community health and prevention, and advance health justice and equity. We do not accept funding from pharmaceutical, insurance, or for-profit health care entities, ensuring our work remains fiercely independent and patient-centered. DFA puts patients over politics–and over profits. Find out more at doctorsforamerica.org and on X @drsforamerica or Bluesky drsforamerica.bsky.social.