Police hunt for gunmen after 12 people shot at community festival

Two people are in critical condition after a pair of gunmen started ‘shooting at each other’ at a festival in Ohio, US.

Officers from the Toledo Police Department responded to reports of  a shooting near the Old West End Festival at around 5.37pm local time (9.37pm GMT) on Saturday.

At least 12 people were shot, including the two in critical condition and a further 10 who are in stable condition.

Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz told local news outlet WTOL 11 that all victims – whose ages range from 16 to 61 – are expected to survive.

Meanwhile, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said in a statement posted to social media: ‘I am deeply concerned about the situation in Toledo tonight.

‘Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence.

‘(Ohio First Lady) Fran and I are praying for everyone impacted by the incident at the Old West End Festival, and we are confident that law enforcement will locate the suspects involved in this senseless crime.’

The force is now searching for suspects after its Deputy Police Chief said it appeared two people had fired weapons ‘probably […] at each other’.

An investigation is underway which includes the festival area and the surrounding streets Delaware Avenue and Robinwood Avenue.

The Old West End Festival is ‘a two-day event celebrating one of the largest historic districts in the country with live music, multiple food markets, a beer garden, house tours, shopping, and much more.’

However, the remainder of the festival has been called off following yesterday’s incident.

In a statement shared on its website, festival organizers said: ‘Too often we turn on the news and learn of a celebration somewhere that turns into a tragedy.

‘Now, that news comes from our own neighborhood. We are heartbroken about those that were injured at the Old West End Festival. Many people want to know how we proceed from such a dark place.

After discussion with festival organizers, law enforcement and the City of Toledo, we feel that it would not be compassionate, responsible or possible to continue festival (sic).’

Metro has contacted the Toledo Police Department for more information.