Police are searching for suspects after a shooting left 12 people injured near a popular festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday evening. According to local authorities, the shooting happened shortly before 6:00 p.m. near the Old West End Festival. Emergency crews quickly arrived at the scene and found several people suffering from gunshot wounds.
Officials said ten victims are in stable condition. Two others remain in critical condition. The injured people range in age from 16 to 61 years old. Investigators believe two individuals were involved in the gunfire. Police think the suspects may have been shooting at each other when the violence broke out. No arrests have been announced so far.
Social media videos appeared to show people running in panic as they heard multiple gunshots. Authorities have not officially verified the footage. One witness, Tito Aguilar, said he was buying food when he noticed a group of teenagers involved in a confrontation. He began recording the incident on his phone.
A few moments later, he heard gunshots. He runs for safety. After things calmed down, he went back. He saw several injured people lying on the ground.
Police officers described the incident as one of the worst shooting scenes they had seen. Investigators are now interviewing victims and witnesses. They are also reviewing security camera footage from the area. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
The Old West End Festival is a long-running community event. It attracts thousands of visitors each year with live music, food vendors, shopping, and historic home tours. Police officials said it was heartbreaking to see violence interrupt an event that families have enjoyed for many years. They called the shooting a tragic and senseless act.
The investigation is focused on the area around Delaware Avenue and Robinwood Avenue, where festival activities were taking place. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said he was deeply concerned by the incident. In a statement, he said summer festivals should be safe places for families and communities to gather. He also expressed support for the victims and confidence that police will find those responsible.
