A shooting near Toledo’s Old West End Festival left at least 12 people wounded on Saturday, and police are still searching for the suspects. Authorities said the gunfire broke out near the festival area just after 5:30 p.m., prompting a major emergency response.
What Happened
Police said officers responded to reports of a person shot near the Old West End Festival and then found multiple victims at the scene. Early reports indicate that at least two shooters may have been exchanging gunfire, and investigators are still working to confirm the motive and exact sequence of events.
The festival was taking place in Toledo’s historic Old West End neighborhood, where the event features live music, food vendors, home tours, and family activities. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people ran for safety after the shots were fired.
Victims and Injuries
Authorities said 12 people were shot, with two victims reported in critical condition. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, and most were said to be in their early 20s.
Officials also said many of the wounded were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz said the injured were expected to recover, according to local reports.
Investigation Underway
Police have not announced any arrests, and the suspects remain at large. Investigators are reviewing witness statements, victim interviews, and camera footage from the area as they try to determine what led to the shooting.
The Toledo Police Department also asked people to avoid the area while officers continued their work. Additional police were already on duty for the festival, along with off-duty officers hired for security.
Festival Response
The Old West End Festival is one of Toledo’s best-known community events, drawing large crowds for its music, food, and neighborhood activities. Officials have not yet confirmed whether the festival will continue as scheduled after the shooting.
The incident has renewed concerns about safety at public gatherings, especially as investigators continue to piece together how the violence started. The case remains active, and more updates are expected as police release additional details.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing Toledo festival shooting story, and share your thoughts in the comments below.