At least 12 people were injured in a shooting near a festival held in Toledo, Ohio. The incident caused panic among the crowd, with some attendees rushing to assist the wounded.
Deputy Chief of Toledo Police Joe Heffernan said hours later that no suspects had been detained. Authorities asked those at the festival to share photos and videos from their phones to help gather evidence for the investigation.
Shooting Occurred Near Festival Grounds
The gunfire took place near the Old West End Festival, which features live music, home tours, and various activities. This two-day event is known as the summer season opener in Toledo's historic district.
Heffernan noted that at least two individuals are believed to have used firearms and likely fired at each other. The injured ranged in age from 14 to 61, with most in their early twenties.
Two of the injured are reported to be in critical condition. Emergency responders faced challenges reaching hospitals due to road closures and traffic caused by the crowd leaving the festival; however, all patients were transported within an hour of the incident.
Witnesses Took Cover Amid Gunfire
Kevin Berry, who was listening to music with friends in the arboretum area at the time, described hearing several gunshots and everyone dropping to the ground. After looking down, he saw a gun discarded about 15 meters away.
Berry, who has medical training, said he searched for people who might need help during the incident. He observed at least five individuals with gunshot wounds scattered around the arboretum.
Officials Assess Festival's Future
Security official George Kral in Toledo said discussions with organizers are underway to decide whether the festival will continue over the weekend. Kral described the event as one of the city's most well-known festivals and said the incident cast a shadow over it.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed deep concern about the situation in Toledo. He emphasized that summer festivals should be safe spaces where families can gather without fear.
Numerous videos taken at the festival and shared on social media show people fleeing during the gunfire and emergency personnel attending to the injured. The investigation is ongoing, and police continue efforts to apprehend those involved in the attack.
