Toledo Festival Shooting: 12 People Killed Near Ohio Event, Suspects Still Missing
Toledo, US: A shooting near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, left multiple people dead and several others injured, triggering panic at the crowded community event. According to reports, police are continuing a large-scale search for the suspects involved in the incident.
Shooting Reported Near Popular Toledo Festival
As reported by CNN, Toledo police officers responded to reports of gunfire near the Old West End Festival at around 5:30 pm local time. Authorities initially received information about one person being shot, but officers arriving at the scene discovered several victims suffering from gunshot wounds.
The incident took place close to Delaware Avenue and Glenwood Avenue, where the annual festival was underway. Emergency teams rushed the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment while police secured the area.
Police Launch Search For Suspects
Officials said the suspects fled after the shooting and no arrests had been made immediately after the incident. Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan stated that investigators believe at least two individuals exchanged gunfire during the chaos.
Authorities appealed to festival attendees to share mobile phone videos and photographs that could help investigators identify those responsible.
Eyewitnesses Describe Panic At The Scene
Witnesses present at the festival described scenes of confusion and fear as gunshots rang out during the event. People were seen running for safety while others tried to help the injured before emergency personnel arrived.
BREAKING: Moment shots fired at Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio; ‘many victims’ pic.twitter.com/nUoo5IcO9c
— Rapid Report (@RapidReport2025) June 6, 2026
Several videos circulating on social media reportedly showed festival-goers taking cover as officers and first responders attended to victims.
One eyewitness, Kevin Berry, told reporters he was attending the festival with friends and heard multiple gunshots before noticing injured people lying nearby. Berry, who has medical training and military experience, reportedly assisted victims until emergency crews reached the area.
Festival’s Future Under Discussion
The Old West End Festival is considered one of Toledo’s major summer events and attracts large crowds every year with live music, food stalls, shopping and neighborhood tours.
Following the shooting, city officials and organizers began discussions on whether the remaining festival events should continue. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine also expressed concern over the incident, stating that community festivals should remain safe spaces for families.
I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence. Fran and I are praying for everyone impacted by the incident at the Old West End Festival, and we are confident that…
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) June 6, 2026
Police said the investigation remains active and urged the public to avoid the affected area while authorities continue their search for those involved.
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