At least 12 people were shot in a sudden burst of gunfire near a summer event in the city of Toledo in the U.S. state of Ohio. Police said two gunmen may have been firing at each other during the chaos. The suspects are still on the run.
The shooting happened just after 5:30 p.m. local time on Saturday near the Old West End Festival. The area was busy with visitors, food stalls, music, and family activities. Hundreds of people were present when the shots were fired.
Officials said panic spread quickly as people tried to find safety. Emergency teams rushed to the scene. Police confirmed that two victims were in critical condition. The ages of those hurt range from 14 to 61, with many victims in their early 20s.
Deputy Chief Joseph Heffernan said early signs suggest that two shooters were involved. He said they were likely firing at each other in a crowded public area. Police also said the investigation is still in its early stage.
Officers are now collecting video footage from the area. They are also speaking with victims and witnesses. Authorities said mobile security cameras were already in place for the festival, along with both on-duty and off-duty officers working the event.
Police Lt. Dan Gerken said the situation remains serious and active. He noted that most of the victims are young adults. He also said investigators are working to understand what led to the shooting and whether the attackers knew each other.
The Old West End Festival is a long-running community event in Toledo. It is known for live music, street food, cultural events, and family activities. Organizers said it is one of the most popular summer traditions in the city.
Local leaders expressed shock over the violence. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said he was deeply concerned about the incident. He said public events like summer festivals should be safe spaces for families and children. He also said state officials are confident that police will find those responsible.
Witnesses described a fast and confusing scene. Many people said they first thought fireworks had gone off. Then they realized people were falling and running. Festival security teams helped guide crowds away from danger zones.
Police said extra officers had already been assigned to the event due to its large size. Security planning included patrol units, on-site staff, and camera coverage. Despite these measures, the sudden gunfire still caused multiple injuries.
Medical teams treated the wounded at the scene before moving them to nearby hospitals. Officials did not immediately release full details on their conditions beyond the critical cases.
The Old West End Association, which helps organize the festival, later announced that remaining events would be canceled. The group said it was not possible to continue after such a serious incident. They said the decision was made with police and city officials.
Community members in Toledo expressed sadness and concern. Many said the festival is usually a peaceful and joyful event. They said the violence has shaken the local community and raised questions about public safety at large gatherings.
Police urged anyone with video or information to come forward. They said even small details could help identify the shooters. Investigators are still trying to confirm the exact number of shots fired and the weapons used.
As of now, no arrests have been made. The search for the suspects continues. Authorities said more updates will be released as the investigation develops.
The incident adds to growing concerns about gun violence at public events in the United States. Officials say their focus now is on finding the attackers and supporting the victims and their families.
