Shooting at Ohio Summer Festival Leaves at Least 12 Injured, Gunman at Large

(Central News Agency, Washington, June 6, Combined Foreign Reports) A shooting occurred near a community festival in Toledo, Ohio, leaving at least 12 people injured and sending crowds fleeing in panic. The gunman remains at large.

According to the Associated Press, Toledo Police Deputy Chief Joe Heffernan stated that two of the injured are in critical condition. He indicated that there appeared to be at least two shooters who may have fired at each other.

The Toledo Police Department reported that the two-day "Old West End Festival" was taking place in the city's historic district. This annual event, featuring music, food stalls, and home tours, is described as the "kickoff event for Toledo's summer festival season."

Police said they are actively searching for the suspects involved.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a statement saying, "I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight. Summer festivals should be safe spaces where families can gather without fear of violence."

Multiple videos circulating on social media show people scattering in all directions after gunshots rang out, with emergency responders providing aid to suspected victims at the scene.

Toledo resident Kevin Berry said he and his friend were enjoying the music when they heard multiple gunshots. "Everyone hit the ground immediately," he said.

When he looked up, he saw a gun discarded less than 50 feet (about 15 meters) away, and police had already arrived at the scene.

Berry, who has medical training, helped search for potential victims at the scene and said he saw at least five people injured.

Police stated, "Multiple victims have been rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The Toledo Police Department is actively searching for one or more suspects involved in this incident," and urged the public and travelers to avoid the area. (Editor: Liu Wenyu) 1150607