At least 12 people shot at an Ohio festival, search for suspects ongoing

A violent outbreak of gunfire shattered a community gathering in Toledo, Ohio, this Saturday, leaving at least 12 people wounded and prompting an active search for the suspects involved. The incident occurred near the Old West End Festival, a historic district celebration known for its live music and local home tours.

Ongoing Investigation

Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan confirmed that two of the victims are currently in critical condition. Authorities believe at least two individuals were firing weapons at the scene, with evidence suggesting the shooters were likely targeting each other. The Toledo Police Department continues to actively hunt for those responsible for the violence.

Chaos at the Festival

The shooting turned a festive environment into a scene of panic, with social media footage capturing attendees scrambling for cover as gunshots rang out. Witness Kevin Berry, who was in the neighborhood arboretum at the time, described the immediate reaction of the crowd: “Everybody hit the deck.”

Berry, a U.S. Navy veteran with medical training, recounted seeing a gun tossed to the ground less than 50 feet away before stepping in to assist victims. He reported seeing at least five people suffering from gunshot wounds scattered throughout the arboretum area as on-site police moved to secure the scene.

Reaction

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a statement condemning the violence, stating, “I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence.”

The Old West End Festival, described by Berry as the “kick-off to Toledo’s summer festival season,” is a two-day event featuring food vendors, shopping, and home tours. Further updates on the ongoing situation will continue to be tracked by 205focus.com as police provide more information.