Police continued searching Sunday for multiple suspects after a shooting near an Ohio street festival left 12 people wounded, including two critically injured, authorities said.
The gunfire erupted Saturday evening near Toledo’s annual Old West End Festival, a community event with live music in which several hundred people were in attendance. Investigators believed at least two people exchanged gunfire near the festival grounds, according to Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Hefferman.
No arrests had been made as of Sunday morning. Authorities urged anyone who attended the festival to provide photos or videos that could help identify those responsible.
The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, with most in their early 20s. Two people remained in critical condition while the others suffered injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening.
Police said officers responded shortly after 5:30 p.m. to reports of gunfire and found multiple victims scattered across a large area near the festival. Emergency crews transported the injured to nearby hospitals within about an hour despite traffic challenges caused by the event.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as festivalgoers ran for cover while others rushed to help the wounded.
Gov. Mike DeWine (R-OH) issued a statement Saturday night, saying he is deeply concerned about the incident.
“I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight,” he said. “Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence.”
MANHUNT UNDERWAY AFTER AT LEAST 12 SHOT AT STREET FESTIVAL IN TOLEDO, OHIO
The Old West End Association, which hosts the event, canceled Sunday’s festivities following the shooting.
“After discussion with festival organizers, law enforcement and the City of Toledo, we feel that it would not be compassionate, responsible or possible to continue [the] festival,” the organization said.