12 Injured in Ohio Festival Shooting as Police Hunt Suspects

At least 12 people were wounded in a shooting near a popular street festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday, prompting a massive police investigation and an ongoing search for the suspects involved. Authorities said no arrests had been made as of late Saturday night.

The shooting occurred near the annual Old West End Festival, a two-day community event known for its live music, food vendors, art displays and historic home tours. According to Toledo police, officers responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 5:30 p.m. and discovered multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.

Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said preliminary investigations indicate that at least two individuals were likely exchanging gunfire and may have been shooting at each other. The suspects fled the scene before officers arrived, triggering a manhunt. Authorities have appealed to festival attendees to submit photos and videos that could assist investigators in identifying those responsible.

Officials reported that the victims range in age from 14 to 61 years old. Two of the injured were said to be in critical condition, while the remaining victims sustained varying degrees of injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Emergency responders faced challenges navigating heavy traffic and road closures around the festival but succeeded in evacuating all victims within an hour.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunshots rang out through the crowded festival grounds. Videos circulating on social media showed people running for safety while others rushed to assist the wounded. Some attendees reported hearing numerous shots before law enforcement officers already stationed at the event moved quickly to secure the area.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern over the violence, stating that community festivals should remain safe spaces for families and visitors. City officials and festival organizers were subsequently forced to review whether the event should continue through the remainder of the weekend.

Police said the investigation remains active and urged anyone with information about the shooting or the suspects to come forward.