Twelve people were wounded when gunfire erupted near a busy street festival in Toledo, Ohio, on Saturday evening, and police say they are still searching for at least two suspects believed to have opened fire.
Toledo police said shots were fired shortly after 5:30 p.m. near the Old West End Festival, an annual event featuring live music, food vendors, and home tours in the historic neighborhood. Officers responding to reports of gunfire found multiple victims in the area around Delaware Avenue and Robinwood Avenue, close to festival activities.
Authorities said 12 people were hit by gunfire, with 10 reported in stable condition and two in critical condition at local hospitals. Police said the victims range in age from 14 to 61, with many in their late teens and early 20s, according to The Guardian.
Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said investigators believe at least two people fired weapons and were "probably shooting at each other," leaving bystanders caught in the crossfire. No arrests have been made, and officials said they have not publicly identified any suspects or determined a motive.
Police said many of the wounded were transported by ambulance and private vehicles to nearby medical facilities soon after the shooting. Hospital officials have not released detailed updates on the conditions of individual patients, citing privacy rules, the New York Times reported.
The shooting sent festival attendees running for cover through crowded residential streets, as others stayed behind to help the injured until emergency crews arrived. Videos shared on social media showed people screaming and ducking behind cars as sirens approached the neighborhood.
Organizers canceled the remaining Old West End Festival events scheduled for Sunday, saying it would not be possible or appropriate to continue after the violence. The festival is a longstanding community celebration that draws large crowds to one of Toledo's best-known historic districts each year.
Investigators urged anyone who was in the area to submit photos, videos, or other information that might help identify the shooters. Police said tips can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111 as the search for the suspects continues, as per ABC News.
