Police said the shooting appeared to involve at least two people firing near a crowded neighborhood event.
TOLEDO, Ohio — A shooting near Toledo’s Old West End Festival wounded 12 people Saturday, forcing the cancellation of remaining events and leaving police searching Sunday for at least two suspected shooters.
The violence struck during a busy weekend event known for music, food, art and historic home tours. Police said the wounded ranged from a teenager to a 61-year-old, and officials said the shooting may have started as an exchange of gunfire between two people near the festival crowd.
Shots were reported Saturday evening near the festival grounds in the Old West End, a neighborhood known for Victorian homes and a long-running summer celebration. Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said investigators did not believe the shooting was random in the broadest sense, but bystanders were hit when gunfire erupted. Heffernan said police were working to determine who fired and why.
Authorities said 12 people were taken to hospitals after the shooting. Early police updates said two people were critically injured, while others were stable. The victims’ names were not released Sunday. Police said the ages ranged from 14 to 61, with many victims in their early 20s. No suspects had been arrested, and officials said investigators were reviewing leads from the scene.
The festival had drawn families, residents and visitors into the neighborhood before the gunfire. Organizers canceled Sunday’s planned events after the shooting. City officials said the decision followed talks about public safety and the effect of the violence on the neighborhood. The festival is one of Toledo’s most recognized community events and is tied closely to the city’s Old West End identity.
Investigators asked witnesses to share photos and videos taken around the time of the shooting. Public Safety Director George Kral said many people had phones out at the crowded event and that footage could be key to finding the shooters. Police also asked anyone who saw a weapon, argument or suspicious movement before the shots to contact authorities.
Emergency crews faced heavy traffic and road closures around the festival area, but officials said the wounded were transported within about an hour. Some people nearby helped victims before medics reached them. Witness Kevin Berry said he used medical training from his Navy service to help people on the street as others ran for cover.
The case remained open Sunday with no arrests announced. Police said the next steps include reviewing video, interviewing witnesses and preparing evidence for prosecutors once suspects are identified.
Author note: Last updated June 7, 2026.