America Shooting: Several Injured Near Ohio Street Festival, Police Probe Underway

Ohio: The scene suddenly changed on Saturday evening in Toledo city in the state of Ohio in America. There was chaos due to sudden firing of bullets among the people gathered at the Old West End Festival. The sounds of music, food and laughter turned into screams. Police have surrounded the entire area and the search for the attackers is going on.

When and how did the incident happen?

According to Toledo Police, shots were first reported near the Old West End Festival around 5:30 Saturday evening. At that time the celebration was in full swing. Families, children and elders were all enjoying the programme. Suddenly, after hearing the sound of bullets, people started running here and there. Police and ambulance reached the spot within a few minutes. Many people were found soaked in blood at the spot, who were immediately sent to the hospital.

What was the reason behind the firing?

It is not yet clear who fired the bullet and why. Police are investigating on many aspects. The initial suspicion is of mutual rivalry, but no bigger motive is being ruled out. The investigating agencies are scanning the footage of CCTV cameras installed in nearby shops and houses. The people present at the spot are also being interrogated.

What is the identity of the Old West End Festival?

The Old West End Festival is Toledo's oldest and most famous event. Every year for two days in the first week of June, this area is filled with colorful lights, music and art. People come from far and wide to see the food stalls, painting exhibitions and parades set up amidst historical buildings. This time also a crowd of thousands had gathered, but by the evening the festival turned into mourning.

What are the police doing now?

After the incident, police force has been deployed in the entire Old West End area. Barricading has been done on the roads. The police chief has appealed to the people not to pay attention to rumours. If anyone has a video of the incident or any information, please give it to the police immediately. Eyewitnesses say that there were two to three people who fired the shots, who took advantage of the crowd and escaped.

At present there is an atmosphere of panic in Toledo city. The celebration which was supposed to be memorable has now become a scary evening in the minds of people. The real reason will be revealed only after the investigation is completed.