Toledo, Ohio - Local authorities reported that at least 12 people were injured Saturday when two individuals fired at one another near the Old West End Festival, a long-standing community event.
Police said two of the wounded were in critical condition as of remarks made at a press briefing. The victims' ages span from 14 to 61, reflecting a wide range of those affected by the incident.
Lieutenant Dan Gerken, addressing reporters at a news conference, described the scene as unusually severe, saying, "I’ve been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top." He added that investigators are speaking with multiple people and reviewing camera footage to develop leads.
Deputy Chief Joseph Heffernan characterized the investigation as "pretty active" and indicated that authorities "do have some evidence and we’re following up on some leads." A search remains ongoing for any suspects, according to police statements.
George Kral, director of public safety for Toledo, appealed directly to residents for help locating video and other information that could identify those involved. "I know there is information out there," Kral said. "Please help us help you." Authorities emphasized that cellphone footage could be valuable to investigators.
According to the Toledo Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 5:37 p.m. after receiving a report of a person shot near the Old West End Festival. The department noted on social media that "many victims have been transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment." Several hundred people were attending the festival at the time, officials said.
Officials described the festival as one of the city's most iconic community events and lamented that the gathering was marred by violence. The police account states the incident involved two people who exchanged gunfire with one another.
Separately, the Gun Violence Archive has recorded 171 mass shootings in the United States this year, a tally that does not include the Toledo incident. The archive defines a mass shooting as an event in which at least four people are injured by gunfire, excluding the shooter.
Reporting context: Authorities continue to investigate, interview witnesses, and review available footage as they search for suspects. Officials urged anyone with information to come forward.