Toledo Festival Shooting Leaves 12 Wounded, Suspects at Large, June 07

Gunfire erupted Saturday near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, wounding 12 people and sending crowds scrambling for cover. Police say at least two people fired weapons, probably at each other. No suspects were in custody as of Sunday morning. The incident halted the annual two-day celebration and prompted officials to urge witnesses to share photos and videos.

What Happened at the Festival

The shooting occurred around 5:37 p.m. ET on Saturday near the Old West End Festival, an annual gathering featuring live music, food vendors, home tours, and shopping in Toledo’s historic district. Police officers already stationed at the event responded immediately and provided first aid. Emergency responders transported all 12 victims to nearby hospitals within one hour, despite road closures and heavy traffic leaving the festival.

Two victims remained in critical condition as of Sunday. The ages of the wounded ranged from 14 to 61, with most in their early 20s. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz said all victims were expected to survive.

Police Search for Two Shooters

Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said it appeared at least two people fired weapons and were “probably shooting at each other.” No suspects were in custody hours after the incident. Police are reviewing camera footage and asking anyone with photos, videos, or information to contact Crime Stoppers at (419) 255-1111.

George Karl, Toledo’s director of public safety, appealed for public help at a news conference, noting that several hundred people attended the festival. “I know in my heart that footage is out there,” Karl said.

Festival Canceled, Officials React

Festival organizers canceled Sunday’s events, saying “it would not be compassionate, responsible or possible to continue.” The organization released a statement: “We are heartbroken about those that were injured at the Old West End Festival.”

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said in a statement: “I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence.” City Council Member Theresa Morris added that the tragedy was weighing heavily on residents and visitors.

Eyewitness Accounts of Chaos

Attendees described panic as gunshots rang out. Kevin Berry, who was sitting in the neighborhood arboretum listening to live music with friends, heard shots and saw a gun tossed to the ground less than 50 feet away. “Everybody hit the deck,” he said. Multiple videos posted to social media showed people running and screaming as gunfire erupted.

Lieutenant Dan Gerken of the Toledo Police Department told reporters: “Twelve people being shot, that’s the most I’ve been to a scene. I’ve been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top.”

Final Thoughts

Police continue searching for at least two shooters in the Toledo festival incident. All 12 victims are expected to survive, though two remain in critical condition. The public’s help identifying the suspects is critical to closing the case.

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