12 Injured, Two Critical After Gunfire Erupts Near Ohio Festival as Police Hunt Suspects

• Authorities said at least 12 people were wounded in the shooting.

• Preliminary findings indicate two individuals shooting at each other.

• Police reviewing surveillance footage, collecting witness statements and videos.

At least 12 people were wounded after two individuals exchanged gunfire near a popular festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday, setting off a major police hunt for suspects, as multiple victims were rushed to local hospitals, authorities said.

The shooting took place near the Old West End Festival, one of Toledo’s biggest annual community gatherings, where hundreds of people had come together.

According to the Toledo Police Department, officers were dispatched at about 5:37 p.m. after reports of a person shot near the festival grounds. Authorities later confirmed that at least 12 people had been injured.

Two of the victims remain in critical condition, police said during a Saturday evening news conference. The victims range in age from 14 to 61.

Gunfire Between Two Individuals Triggers Entire Incident

Investigators said early findings indicate the incident involved two people shooting at each other in a crowded area. “This incident involved two individuals shooting at each other,” Toledo police officials said during the news conference.

Lieutenant Dan Gerken said the scene stood out as one of the most severe he has seen in his career. “I’ve been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top,” Gerken told reporters during the Saturday press conference.

Authorities have not announced any arrests, and police are still searching for the suspects.

Investigation Remains Active

Deputy Chief Joseph Heffernan said investigators are following several leads and reviewing evidence collected at the scene.

“We do have some evidence, and we’re following up on some leads,” Heffernan told reporters, describing the case as a “pretty active” investigation. Police are interviewing witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the area as they work to identify those responsible.

Gerken said investigators are also looking at camera footage that could help show exactly how the shooting unfolded.

Officials Ask Public for Video Evidence

City officials urged people who attended the festival to share cellphone videos or other information that could help with the investigation.

George Kral, Toledo’s director of public safety, made a direct appeal to attendees during the news conference. “I know there is information out there,” Kral said. “Please help us help you.”

Authorities believe videos recorded by festival-goers could provide important evidence about the suspects and the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.

Festival Marred by Violence

Several hundred people were attending the Old West End Festival when the gunfire broke out, according to city officials. Kral said it was painful to see violence disrupt one of Toledo’s most well-known community events.

“This is one of the most iconic festivals in Toledo, and it’s a shame that something like this had to ruin it,” Kral said during the briefing. Police have not released any details about a possible motive, and the identities of the victims have not been made public.