TOLEDO, Ohio — At least 12 people were shot near a community festival in Toledo on Saturday evening, with police searching for the gunmen who remained at large, authorities said.
Toledo police responded to reports of shots fired around 5:37 p.m. local time near the Old West End Festival, an annual street fair featuring live music and home tours in a historic district, according to the Toledo Police Department.
Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said it appeared that at least two people opened fire and were “probably shooting at each other,” with bystanders struck in the crossfire. Two of the wounded were in critical condition, he said. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, officials said.
Police said officers were already in the area for the festival, which drew several hundred people. Many victims were transported to nearby hospitals. Authorities have not released the names of those injured.
No suspects have been taken into custody, and an active search continues, police said. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and seeking witness accounts and additional video evidence from the public.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine expressed concern over the incident in a statement. “I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight,” he said.
The Old West End Festival is one of the city’s prominent community events. Saturday’s shooting disrupted the gathering, sending attendees scrambling for safety as gunfire rang out.
Police have not identified any motive or released descriptions of the suspects. Heffernan noted that the investigation remains in its early stages, with officers processing the scene and following leads.
As of Sunday, no arrests had been announced. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact Toledo police. Details on the precise circumstances of the shooting, including any possible connection between the apparent shooters, remained under investigation, officials said.
