At least 12 people were shot and killed Saturday when gunmen opened fire, possibly targeting each other, near a summer festival in Toledo, Ohio, officials said.
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At least two gunmen were “probably shooting at each other” in the shooting near Toledo’s Old West End Festival just after 5:30 p.m., Toledo Deputy Police Chief Joseph Heffernan said.
Heffernan said two of the victims were in critical condition and the gunmen were still at large Saturday night.
Lt. Dan Gerken said the oldest victim was 61 years old, the youngest was 14 years old, and most were in their early 20s.
Officials said several hundred people were attending the festival at the time. The annual festival is a beloved Toledo tradition and features live music, food markets, beer gardens, and children’s events.
Gerken emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages, and said authorities are speaking with victims and witnesses and reviewing camera footage.
Mr Heffernan said there were extra police officers on duty for the festival and a number of off-duty police officers for the festival itself, adding that “mobile security cameras” were also used.
“It’s really unfortunate that some people, for whatever reason they have in mind, would decide to destroy an event that has been a community favorite for years and years,” he said.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said he was “deeply concerned” about the shooting.
“Summer festivals should be a safe place for families to spend time together without fear of violence,” he told TV show X. “(First Lady) Fran and I are praying for everyone affected by the incident at the Old West End Festival. We are confident that law enforcement will find the suspects involved in this senseless crime.”
The Old West End Association announced in a statement that Sunday’s festivities have been cancelled.
“After consulting with festival organizers, police, and the City of Toledo, we feel it would be inconsiderate, responsible, and impossible for the festival to continue,” the group said in a statement.
