Shooters Still at Large After 12 Shot at Toledo, Ohio Festival

A shooting near a packed outdoor festival in Toledo, Ohio left 12 people wounded Saturday afternoon and touched off a manhunt that was still ongoing Monday, with no suspects in custody and investigators appealing to the public for help.

Gunfire broke out at approximately 5:37 p.m. near the Agnes Reynolds Jackson Arboretum, where hundreds of people had gathered for the Old West End Festival, an annual two-day event in Toledo's historic district featuring live music, food vendors, a parade, home tours, and a beer garden. Social media videos showed festivalgoers screaming and running for cover between golf carts and food trucks as rapid bursts of gunfire rang out.

What Police Know

Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joseph Heffernan said at a news conference Saturday night that investigators believe at least two people fired weapons and were "probably shooting at each other." Twelve people were struck in the crossfire.

The victims range in age from 14 to 61, with most in their early 20s. The full age breakdown released by police: 14, 16, 16, 20, 22, 22, 24, 29, 29, 36, 57, and 61. Two victims were initially listed in critical condition. By Sunday afternoon, Toledo police confirmed all 12 were in stable condition and improving.

As of Monday, no arrests had been announced. Police said investigators were following multiple leads and making progress on the case.

"As far as violence, this is over the top," Investigative Lt. Dan Gerken said at the news conference. "Twelve people being shot — that's the most I've been to a scene."

Heffernan noted that extra police officers had been on duty for the festival and a large number of off-duty officers were also working the event, along with mobile security cameras.

Police Urge the Public to Come Forward

Officials said the key to identifying the shooters may lie with the crowd that was present. Toledo Director of Public Safety George Kral pulled out his cellphone at the podium to make the point directly.

"I know in my heart that footage is out there," Kral said. "I am imploring my fellow Toledoans to look through your cellphone video and reach out to TPD and help them catch the people who did this. This is one of the most iconic festivals in Toledo, and it's a shame that something like this had to ruin it."

Lt. Gerken also urged parents to speak with their children about what they may have seen. "There's kids out there that probably know more than all of us standing here," he said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call or text Crime Stoppers at (419) 255-1111.

Festival Canceled, Community in Shock

Festival organizers announced Sunday that the remainder of the two-day event would not continue. "We are heartbroken about those that were injured at the Old West End Festival," organizers said in a statement. "It would not be compassionate, responsible, or possible to continue."

The Old West End Festival is one of Toledo's most beloved annual traditions, drawing visitors to the city's historic neighborhood each summer. Deputy Chief Heffernan described the shooting as a gut punch to the community.

"It's just a shame when a few people, for whatever reason going through their heads, decide to disrupt something that has been a beloved community event for many, many, many years," he said.

Political Reaction

Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz addressed the shooting in a statement, acknowledging both the gravity of the moment and placing it in a broader national context. "What happened today at the Old West End Festival, sadly, has happened in too many American cities," he said.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said he was deeply concerned and that he and first lady Fran DeWine were praying for those affected. "Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence," DeWine said.

Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur also issued a statement, saying she would coordinate with local, state, and federal officials. "Praying now for victims and our Old West End community — one of the most joyous and celebrated events in our region will endure," she said.

The investigation remained active Monday. Police have not released suspect descriptions or identified a motive.

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