It was supposed to be a celebration. The Old West End Festival — one of Toledo, Ohio’s most beloved annual events — draws thousands of families, neighbors, and visitors to its streets every year. But on June 6, the sound of music was replaced by gunshots, and a festive afternoon turned into a scene of chaos and bloodshed.
Twelve people were shot. The youngest victim was just 14 years old. The oldest was 61. Most of those struck were innocent bystanders who had nothing to do with the dispute that triggered the violence.
On June 10, the Toledo Police Department released the name of the first suspect: Ka Nye Taylor, 20, who is now wanted on 11 counts of felonious assault. Investigators say he was identified through multiple witness interviews and investigative leads. Authorities describe him as 5’11”, approximately 130 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.
But Taylor isn’t the only one police are looking for. A second gunman remains unidentified — and police have released a photo showing a male suspect dressed in all black at the festival. Investigators are urging the public to come forward with any information that could help identify him.
“While investigators believe some of the victims are intentionally targeted, the majority of those injured appear to have been innocent bystanders caught up in this senseless act of violence.” — Toledo Police Chief Michael Troendle
According to investigators, the shooting began as a dispute between two rival groups that spiraled into a foot chase, then a physical fight, and finally an exchange of gunfire. Police believe one person fired first — and someone from the opposing group shot back. The crossfire left 12 people bleeding on what should have been a festive street.
Remarkably, all 12 victims are expected to survive. Nine have already been released from the hospital. The remaining three are no longer in critical condition. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz called it “a blessing, if not a miracle” that no one was killed.
Police had already deployed a heavy law enforcement presence at the festival that day — including off-duty officers working security. The shooting happened anyway.
Reward up to $15,000: Crime Stoppers is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to arrests. The U.S. Marshals Service has added another $5,000. Anyone with tips is urged to contact Toledo Police immediately.
What Happens Next: Arrest warrants have already been issued for Taylor, but he remains at large. The second shooter has not yet been named. With surveillance photos in hand and a five-figure reward on the table, investigators are pushing hard for a quick resolution — while a shaken community wonders how a street festival became a crime scene.
Twelve strangers went to a festival. They left in ambulances. The people responsible are still out there — and Toledo wants them found.
