TOLEDO, Ohio — At least 12 people were injured, including two who remain in critical condition, after gunfire erupted near a popular street festival in Toledo on Saturday evening.
The shooting occurred during the annual Old West End Festival, a community event that attracts hundreds of people with live music, food, and family-friendly activities.
According to Toledo police, preliminary evidence indicates that at least two individuals exchanged gunfire in a crowded area near the festival. Investigators believe the shooters were likely targeting each other when multiple bystanders were struck by bullets.
“Appears as though there was at least two shooters. I think they were probably shooting at each other,” a police official said. “What ended up happening was 12 people were struck with bullets.”
Authorities said officers were already stationed in and around the festival when the shooting occurred, allowing for an immediate response. The gunfire stopped quickly as law enforcement moved into the area.
Officials confirmed that two victims suffered critical injuries, while the conditions of the remaining victims have not been fully disclosed.
The festival had enhanced security measures in place, including additional on-duty and off-duty police officers and mobile surveillance cameras connected to the city’s Real-Time Crime Center.
Investigators are now reviewing surveillance footage, collecting physical evidence, and interviewing witnesses in an effort to identify those responsible.
Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion as festivalgoers scrambled for safety.
“It was a horrible sight,” one attendee said. “I walked over to see if anybody needed help, and quite a few people needed help.”
Another festivalgoer expressed shock that violence could occur at an event widely viewed as safe for families and children.
“I thought it was a safe place to come. To see random people getting shot is crazy,” the witness said.
Residents also voiced concerns about the danger posed by stray bullets in crowded public spaces.
Police have not announced any arrests and are actively searching for the individuals involved in the shooting.
Anyone with information, photographs, or video related to the incident is encouraged to contact Toledo police as the investigation continues.
The investigation remains ongoing.
