Gunfire Erupts at Toledo Street Festival, Wounding Twelve

A shooting near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio left at least twelve people injured on Saturday. Authorities suspect two shooters were involved.

Gunfire Erupts at Toledo Street Festival, Wounding Twelve

A burst of gunfire near the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio left at least a dozen people wounded on Saturday afternoon, law enforcement officials reported.

Officers rushed to the area shortly after 5:30 p.m. following emergency calls about shots being fired close to the community gathering. Upon arrival, they discovered numerous individuals had sustained bullet wounds. Paramedics quickly moved the injured to area medical facilities.

Assistant Chief Joe Heffernan of the Toledo Police told reporters during a briefing that two of those hurt were in critical condition. The working theory among detectives is that a pair of gunmen fired at one another, spraying bullets into the crowd.

People who were enjoying the festival when the violence broke out described sudden terror. One man, speaking anonymously to CNN, recalled hearing someone yell for the crowd to retreat, which triggered a stampede as attendees tripped and fell over one another in the darkness. Kevin Berry, another person present, informed the Associated Press that he was listening to a band with companions when the sound of gunshots caused the entire audience to drop to the pavement.

The Old West End Festival is a yearly two-day event held in Toledo's historic neighborhood, known for its parade, musical acts, culinary stalls, and house tours.

Authorities have not yet located the individuals believed responsible. They are advising residents and visitors to steer clear of the vicinity while the probe continues.

Data compiled by the Gun Violence Archive and reported by CNN indicates this episode counts among roughly 170 mass shootings that have occurred across the country since January.

Source: PBS NewsHour

Source: NYT US News