On Saturday, 7th June, a mass shooting near the annual Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, left at least 12 people injured, including two who were reported to be in critical condition. Police launched a search for the suspects and said the investigation was ongoing.
BREAKING: Multiple people have been shot near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio, authorities say. pic.twitter.com/6rmhrT3WWc
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) June 6, 2026
Gunfire erupts near the festival area
The shooting took place close to the Old West End Festival, a popular two-day event held in Toledo’s historic district. The festival attracts residents and visitors with live music, food vendors, shopping opportunities, and tours of historic homes. The victims ranged in age from 14 to 61, and at least two were in critical condition, Toledo authorities said. The official number of people who had been injured could rise as some people went to the hospital themselves.
According to Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan, investigators believe at least two people were firing guns and were likely shooting at each other. Authorities have not announced any arrests and said efforts to locate those responsible were continuing. Toledo’s Deputy Police Chief Joe Heffernan said, “I think they were probably shooting at each other, and what ended up happening was 12 people were struck with bullets.”
Witnesses describe panic moments
Videos shared on social media showed people running for safety as gunshots echoed through the area. Emergency responders and police officers were seen helping injured individuals shortly after the shooting.
Kevin Berry, who was attending the festival with friends, said he was sitting in the neighbourhood arboretum listening to live music when several gunshots suddenly rang out.
“Everybody hit the deck,” Berry recalled. When he looked up moments later, he said he saw a gun being thrown onto the ground. Officers who were already stationed at the festival quickly moved toward the scene.
Berry, who has medical training and previously served in the U.S. Navy, said he began looking around the area for people who might need assistance. He reported seeing at least five people suffering from gunshot wounds.
According to him, the victims were spread across different parts of the arboretum area, highlighting the chaos that followed the gunfire.
Officials react
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed concern over the incident, saying summer festivals should be places where families can gather and enjoy themselves without worrying about violence.
The shooting also drew a response from Toledo City Council member Theresa Morris, who said the incident had deeply affected both local residents and the many people who visit and enjoy the festival each year.
Police remained at the scene as investigators worked to determine what led to the shooting and continued their search for those involved.
