A shooting near a community festival in Toledo, Ohio, injured at least 12 people, and police said the search for the suspects was still ongoing following an explosion of gunfire that sent crowds fleeing for safety.
Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said two of the wounded were in critical condition. He stated that it looked there were at least two people firing guns and “probably shooting at each other.”
The Toledo Police Department reported that the incident occurred near the Old West End Festival, an annual gathering of live music and home tours in the city’s historic neighborhood.
The department stated that an active search was underway for those responsible.
“I’m really concerned about the scenario in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be places where families can spend time together without fear of violence,” Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in a statement.
Several videos posted on social media showed individuals rushing over the sound of gunfire and rescue personnel ministering to others who appeared injured.
Kevin Berry stated he was sitting in the neighborhood arboretum with his buddies, listening to live music, when he heard a few gunshots.
“Everybody hit the deck,” he explained.
When he looked up, he noticed a gun being thrown to the ground less than 50 feet (15 meters) away from him. Police officers who were already on-site for the festival rushed to the area.
Berry, who has medical experience and served in the United States Navy, said he traveled around the area seeking for potential victims who could require assistance.
He claimed he witnessed at least five victims with gunshot wounds.
“The folks who were hit were spread out around the arboretum area,” he stated.
The Old West End Festival, a two-day event in Toledo’s historic area, features live music, food vendors, home tours, and shopping.
Berry called it the “kick-off to Toledo’s summer festival season.”
Leave a Comment