A tragic incident unfolded near Toledo’s Old West End Festival on Saturday afternoon, as gunfire erupted, wounding at least 12 individuals. The annual festival, known for its vibrant community atmosphere with live music, home tours, and local vendors, was disrupted by this unfortunate event.

Details of the Incident

According to Toledo police, the shooting occurred in proximity to the festival, a beloved summer event in the city’s historic district. Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan reported that the gunfire appeared to involve at least two individuals who were likely targeting each other. The victims, whose ages range from 14 to 61, included two individuals who are currently in critical condition.

The chaos of the situation saw festivalgoers scrambling for safety, while others bravely attempted to assist the injured. Emergency services faced challenges due to heavy traffic and road closures as people evacuated the area. However, officials confirmed that all injured parties were transported from the scene within an hour.

Community Response and Investigation

The Old West End Festival is a cornerstone of Toledo’s summer activities, drawing residents and visitors alike. In the wake of the shooting, local authorities are calling on the community to come forward with any photos or videos that might aid in the investigation. The search for suspects continues as the city grapples with the aftermath of this violent disruption to their cherished event.

Original reporting: WMAL (Washington DC) — read the source article.