TOLEDO, Ohio — Police are actively searching for at least two suspects after 12 people were shot Saturday evening near the Old West End Festival, a community street celebration in Toledo.
The incident occurred just after 5:30 p.m. Officers initially responded to a report of a single person shot but discovered a dozen individuals had been struck by bullets upon arrival. Two victims remain in critical condition, authorities confirmed. Law enforcement indicated additional victims may exist, as some individuals reportedly left the scene independently.
Investigators believe the two shooters were likely firing at each other. The victims, all with an average age in their early 20s, were among several hundred attendees at the festival. Witnesses described hearing gunshots interrupt live music, prompting crowds to drop to the ground. One witness reported seeing a firearm discarded on the ground less than 50 feet away.
Toledo Police are requesting that festival attendees review any cell phone footage they may have captured to assist the investigation. It remains unclear whether the suspects are juveniles, though authorities confirmed they are increasing outreach efforts aimed at young people to prevent further violence this summer.
A Deputy Police Chief emphasized that incidents like this should not be perceived as exciting, stating the shooting serves as a stark example of the real consequences of gun violence. City leaders condemned the disruption of the beloved community event, asserting that the violence does not represent Toledo’s values or what the community stands for.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed deep concern over the shooting, stating that summer festivals should provide safe environments for families to gather without fear. He voiced confidence that law enforcement would apprehend those responsible.
Police continue to urge anyone with information to come forward as the manhunt remains active.
