Ohio, Jun 07 (V7N) – At least 12 people were injured in a shooting near a community festival in the U.S. state of Ohio, prompting a large-scale police operation as authorities search for the suspected gunmen.
The incident took place on Saturday during the annual Old West End Festival in the city of Toledo, where thousands of people had gathered to enjoy cultural activities, live music and community events.
According to local police, two of the injured remain in critical condition. Several others were treated for gunshot wounds and related injuries sustained during the chaos that followed the shooting.
Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said preliminary investigations indicate that at least two armed individuals were involved in the incident and may have been firing at each other when civilians were caught in the crossfire.
The shooting occurred amid a large crowd near the festival grounds, triggering panic among attendees. Videos shared on social media showed people running for safety after multiple gunshots were heard.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported the injured to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Law enforcement agencies have launched an extensive search operation across the area in an effort to identify and apprehend those responsible. No arrests had been reported as of Saturday night.
The Old West End Festival is one of Toledo's most popular annual events, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The two-day festival features live entertainment, food vendors, historic home tours, arts and crafts exhibitions, and family-oriented activities.
Reacting to the incident, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern and called for a thorough investigation.
In a statement, the governor said community festivals should be safe places where families and friends can gather, not venues overshadowed by violence and fear. He urged law enforcement authorities to swiftly identify and bring those responsible to justice.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and appealed to witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward as efforts continue to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
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