TOLEDO, 07 June (H.S.):

At least 12 people were injured in a shooting near a popular community festival in Toledo, Ohio, prompting a large-scale police search for those responsible and raising fresh concerns about public safety at large gatherings.

The shooting occurred on Saturday evening close to the Old West End Festival, a well-known annual event that attracts thousands of visitors with live music performances, food vendors, home tours, and cultural activities. Authorities said the incident triggered panic among festivalgoers, many of whom rushed for cover as gunfire erupted.

According to law enforcement officials, two of the injured victims remain in critical condition. Preliminary investigations suggest that at least two individuals may have exchanged gunfire, although authorities have not yet identified the suspects or established a motive.

Police officers who were already deployed in the area for festival security responded immediately after shots were fired. Emergency medical teams quickly arrived at the scene and transported multiple victims to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Witnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as gunshots rang out across the festival grounds. Several people reportedly dropped to the ground for protection while others fled the area. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show crowds running as emergency responders attended to the wounded.

One eyewitness, who was attending the event with friends, said he heard several shots while listening to live music in a nearby arboretum. The witness, who has medical training, assisted emergency responders and reported seeing multiple people suffering from gunshot wounds spread across different parts of the area.

State officials expressed concern over the violence. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said community festivals should remain safe places where families can gather without fear and pledged support for law enforcement efforts to identify those responsible.

The Old West End Festival is regarded as one of Toledo's signature summer events and serves as an important celebration of the city's historic district. The annual gathering traditionally marks the beginning of the local festival season and attracts residents and visitors from across the region.

Investigators continue to examine evidence and review witness accounts as the search for the suspects remains active. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the shooting to contact police.

The incident adds to ongoing national concerns over gun violence in public spaces and comes as communities across the United States prepare for a busy summer festival season.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar