TOLEDO, Ohio — Multiple people were shot near a community festival in Toledo on Saturday evening, wounding at least 12 attendees, police said.
The shooting occurred around 5:37 p.m. near the Old West End Festival at the Agnes Reynolds Jackson Arboretum in a historic neighborhood, according to Toledo police. Officers responded to reports of gunfire and found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joseph Heffernan said it appeared at least two people fired weapons and were "probably shooting at each other," with bystanders caught in the crossfire. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, police reported. At least two were in critical condition, officials said.
"The situation was chaotic," Heffernan told reporters. "I've been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top."
No fatalities were reported, and all victims were transported to area hospitals. Police have not identified any suspects and the search continued into Sunday, with no arrests announced as of Monday.
The Old West End Festival is an annual two-day community event featuring live music, food vendors, home tours and shopping that draws thousands of visitors. Organizers canceled the second day of activities following the incident.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and local leaders expressed condolences and called for swift justice. Investigators were reviewing video footage and witness statements, police said. Details on the motive remained unclear.
The incident prompted heightened security concerns at public gatherings. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact Toledo police. As of Monday, the search for the gunmen was ongoing, with no further updates on additional injuries or arrests.
Police continued to process the scene and collect evidence. The community expressed shock over the violence at what is typically a family-friendly celebration marking the start of summer events in the area.
