Suspect Named in Toledo Festival Shooting That Injured 12; Police Hunt for Second Gunman

Police in Toledo, Ohio, have identified a suspect in the mass shooting that wounded 12 people near the historic Old West End Festival on June 6, and are actively searching for a second gunman believed to have been involved in the attack. Authorities named Ka’Nye Taylor, a 20-year-old Toledo resident, as the primary suspect, issuing warrants for 11 counts of felonious assault.

The Shooting

The incident unfolded at approximately 5:37 p.m. local time near the intersection of Delaware Avenue and Glenwood Avenue, adjacent to the 53rd annual Old West End Festival — a beloved community event featuring live music, food vendors, and historic home tours. According to Fox News, officers arriving at the scene found multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Twelve people were struck by gunfire, with victims ranging in age from 14 to 61, most in their early 20s.

Toledo Police Chief Michael Troendle revealed during a press conference that the shooting stemmed from a dispute between two rival groups. A deputy had attempted to check a person’s bag; another individual snatched the bag and fled because a gun was inside, triggering a foot chase and physical altercation that escalated into gunfire. Deputy Chief Joseph Heffernan told reporters the shooters were “probably shooting at each other.”

Remarkably, despite the severity of the incident, there were no fatalities. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz called this “a blessing, if not a miracle,” noting that all victims were expected to survive. As of June 9, nine victims had been released from the hospital, and the remaining three were no longer in critical condition, according to USA Today.

The Suspects

Ka’Nye Taylor, described as a Black male standing approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighing about 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, is wanted on 11 counts of felonious assault — one for each surviving victim. Police have also released a photo of a second suspected gunman, described as a Black male approximately 18 to 24 years old, who has not yet been publicly identified.

Authorities believe three of the 12 victims were involved in the incident, while nine were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire. Chief Troendle emphasized the department’s commitment to the case, stating: “I want the people of Toledo to know that we are not walking away from this case. Our detectives and officers are working it.”

A combined reward of up to $15,000 is being offered for information leading to arrests — $10,000 from Crime Stoppers and up to $5,000 from the U.S. Marshals Service, as reported by BBC News.

Community Response

The shooting at a family-friendly summer festival has sent shockwaves through Toledo. Lucas County Prosecutor Julia Bates vowed that “justice will be swift and strong,” adding: “Those who were frightened, traumatized or harmed by this violence will remain at the forefront of our efforts. This is my home. These are my friends and neighbors. It is not OK.”

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a statement saying: “Summer festivals should be safe spaces for families to spend time together without fear of violence.” The Old West End Association hosted a support session following the shooting, and Mayor Kapszukiewicz has called for the festival to resume later in the summer.

Police Lt. Dan Gerken expressed shock at the scale of the violence, telling reporters: “Twelve people being shot, that’s the most I’ve been to a scene. I’ve been to a lot of scenes, but this is way over the top.”

Investigation Status

As of June 11, the manhunt continues for both Taylor and the second gunman. Police have recovered two weapons that are being processed as evidence. An 18-year-old man was taken in for questioning on June 8 but was later released without charges. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111.

The Toledo shooting is the sixth mass shooting recorded in the United States in 2026, occurring just days after incidents in Muscatine, Iowa, and Fairfield, California, highlighting the ongoing challenge of gun violence at public gatherings across the country.

What to Watch For

Law enforcement continues to follow every lead in the case. The identification and apprehension of the second gunman remains a top priority, and prosecutors are preparing charges that could include additional counts once all suspects are in custody. The community’s resilience — exemplified by bystanders providing aid and the mayor’s determination to revive the festival — will be tested in the weeks ahead as Toledo grapples with the aftermath of its most devastating mass shooting in recent memory.