A cherished summer tradition in Toledo turned into a scene of terror Saturday afternoon when gunfire erupted near the Old West End Festival, leaving 12 people wounded, two of them critically. The violence unfolded around 5:37 p.m. along Delaware and Glenwood avenues, just steps away from a community event that has drawn thousands for decades.
Police say the shooting stemmed from a confrontation between at least two individuals who opened fire on each other. Remarkably, no fatalities had been reported as of late Saturday, but the toll on the neighborhood was immediate and staggering. Officers already on hand for festival security heard the shots and rushed to find multiple victims bleeding on the streets.
“It’s just a shame when a few people, for whatever reasons going through their head, decided to disrupt something that has been a beloved community event for many, many years,” said Sgt. Mohamad-Aly Nasser, the public information officer for Toledo Police.
The scene was chaotic as victims were rushed to area hospitals. Investigators are now working across multiple locations, including near Delaware and Robinwood avenues, piecing together what sparked the violence. Police are pleading with festivalgoers to come forward with any photos or video they may have captured.
“As far as violence, this is over the top,” said Lt. Dan Gerken of the Toledo Police Department, his frustration palpable.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine weighed in on social media, expressing deep concern. “Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence,” he wrote, adding that his family was praying for those impacted. He expressed confidence that law enforcement would track down the suspects behind what he called a “senseless crime.”
The Old West End Festival, a staple of Toledo’s historic district, was meant to be a day of joy and community bonding. Instead, it became the backdrop for a tragedy that has shaken the city to its core. The investigation remains active, and authorities urge the public to steer clear of the area as the search for the shooters continues.
This story is developing.
