At least 12 people were wounded, two critically, in a shooting near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday afternoon, as police hunt at least two suspects who appear to have fired at each other in the crowded street festival.
The incident unfolded shortly after 2 p.m. local time in the historic Old West End neighborhood, where the annual festival draws thousands with live music, food stalls, and neighborhood tours. Toledo police confirmed multiple gunshot victims, with ages ranging from 14 to 61, and said the two most severely injured remain hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities have not released their identities.
“This was a chaotic scene,” said Toledo Police Deputy Chief Joe Heffernan. “We believe there were at least two shooters who were likely exchanging gunfire, which caused panic and led to multiple injuries.” Heffernan added that officers are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses as part of an active manhunt. No arrests have been made, and the motive remains under investigation.
The festival, which includes concerts and neighborhood walks, was temporarily suspended after the shooting. Emergency responders transported the wounded to nearby hospitals, including Mercy Health-St. Vincent Medical Center and ProMedica Toledo Hospital. Local media reported chaotic scenes with attendees running for cover as gunfire erupted.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a statement expressing concern and offering state support to local authorities. “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families,” he said. “We are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to assist Toledo in any way needed.”
The incident comes amid rising concerns over gun violence in U.S. public spaces. In 2025, the Gun Violence Archive recorded over 650 mass shootings nationwide, defined as incidents with four or more victims shot. Toledo, a city of about 270,000, has seen a 15% increase in gun-related incidents this year compared to 2025, according to local police data.
Community leaders in Toledo called for unity and calm. “This is not who we are,” said Maria Rodriguez, a neighborhood organizer. “We must come together to support the victims and ensure this never happens again.”
Police have not ruled out the possibility that the shooters were targeting each other or that bystanders were unintentionally struck. The FBI’s Cleveland field office has been notified and is assisting in the investigation. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.
As the search for suspects continues, the festival remains suspended, and residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The investigation is ongoing, with updates expected in the coming days.