12 Injured, 2 Critical After Gunfire Erupts Near Ohio Community Festival

A community festival in Ohio turned into a scene of panic after a shooting near the event left at least 12 people injured on Saturday night.

The incident took place near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, a popular annual celebration known for its live music, food stalls, home tours and family-friendly activities.
Police have launched a major search operation for the suspects, who remain at large.

Two Victims In Critical Condition

According to Toledo Police, at least 12 people suffered gunshot injuries during the incident.

Officials confirmed that two of the victims are in critical condition and are receiving medical treatment.

Authorities have not yet released the identities of those injured.

Investigators are currently working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the shooting.

Police Suspect Gunmen Were Shooting At Each Other

Speaking about the incident, Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said preliminary findings suggest that there were at least two shooters involved.

According to police, the gunmen were likely firing at each other when multiple bystanders were caught in the crossfire.

"It appears there were at least two people firing weapons who were probably shooting at each other," Heffernan said.

The police department has not yet announced any arrests.

Festival Crowd Runs For Cover

The sudden outbreak of gunfire caused chaos among festival-goers.
Several videos shared on social media showed people running for safety as gunshots echoed through the area.

Emergency responders could be seen rushing to assist injured victims while police officers secured the scene.

Witnesses described moments of fear and confusion as people attempted to protect themselves and their families.

Witness Recalls Terrifying Moments

Kevin Berry, who was attending the festival with friends, said he was enjoying live music in a neighbourhood arboretum when the shooting began.
He recalled hearing several gunshots before people immediately dropped to the ground for cover.

"Everybody hit the deck," Berry said.

When he looked up moments later, he noticed a firearm being thrown onto the ground just a short distance away.

Berry, who has medical training and previously served in the US Navy, then began searching for people who needed assistance.
According to him, he personally saw at least five individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

"The folks who were hit were spread out around the arboretum area," he said.

Police Launch Search For Suspects

The Toledo Police Department said an active investigation is underway.
Officers are reviewing evidence, speaking with witnesses and examining videos from the area to identify those responsible.

Authorities have urged anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.
As of now, police have not disclosed how many suspects are being sought.

Ohio Governor Reacts

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern over the incident and called for community events to remain safe spaces for families.

"I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence," he said in a statement.

The governor's remarks reflected growing concerns over gun violence at public gatherings across the United States.

Festival Meant To Celebrate Community

The Old West End Festival is one of Toledo's best-known community events and is often regarded as the unofficial start of the city's summer festival season.
The two-day celebration attracts thousands of visitors each year and features music performances, local vendors, food stalls, shopping opportunities and tours of historic homes.

What began as a weekend celebration quickly turned into a frightening experience for attendees after the shooting shattered the festive atmosphere.

Investigation Continues

Police are continuing their investigation and have promised to provide further updates as more information becomes available.

For now, the focus remains on locating the suspects, supporting the victims and understanding how a community celebration turned into a scene of violence.
The incident has once again reignited concerns about public safety and gun violence at large gatherings in the United States.