Toledo police continue search for shooters after 12 injured at festival

Police in Toledo, Ohio, are conducting a second‑day search for at least two shooters who opened fire near the Old West End Festival on Saturday evening, injuring 12 people. Deputy chief Joseph Heffernan said the gunfire appeared to be "probably shooting at each other" and that two victims remain in critical condition, with ages ranging from 14 to 61.

Authorities have asked festival attendees to submit any photos or videos that might help identify the suspects. Extra officers, including off‑duty personnel, were deployed to the event, which had several hundred people present at the time of the shooting.

"It’s just a shame when a few people, for whatever reasons going through their head, decide to disrupt something that has been a beloved community event for many, many, many years," Heffernan said.

Festival organizers announced the cancellation of Sunday activities, stating that continuing the event would not be "compassionate, responsible or possible." Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern, saying summer festivals should be safe for families, while state senator Jon Husted called the incident "senseless" and thanked law enforcement for their response.

The Toledo fire chief reported difficulties in transporting victims to hospitals due to road closures and traffic from departing attendees. The incident adds to more than 170 mass shootings recorded in the United States this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Separately, a separate community festival in Columbus was also shut down after fights and reports of gunshots, prompting local officials to emphasize the need for stricter safety measures at large public events.