South Toledo residents react to shooting of 2 victims

TOLEDO, Ohio — Two people were shot Friday afternoon on Beecham Street near Western Avenue, according to Toledo police. One of the victims is 19 years old and the other is around 20 years old.

“I’m not reacting,” one South Toledo resident said of the gunfire in her neighborhood. “I hear them so much, but I knew something was close.”

The resident, who asked to remain anonymous for her safety, has lived in the neighborhood for more than 40 years. She said she was at home when she heard gunshots.

She wished these sounds weren't familiar to her.

“I heard five gunshots, then a minute went by, then five or six more,” she said. “Then I heard the sirens right after.”

Since the victims were young, local residents said that made the situation more difficult. This type of violence is already happening, with a whole summer ahead.

“It’s really sad,” said one South Toledo resident. “It’s not safe to go into the store or anything anymore.”

Kari Chevalier said she has lived in the neighborhood her entire life.

“We need help to reduce violence, it’s not just about gun violence,” Chevalier said. “There are all kinds of weapons. The violence must stop. It's too much.”

She said she has seen the violence worsen over the years.

“Every day we hear about a shooting,” she said. “I'm not even afraid to leave the house anymore. I remember as a kid you could walk outside and have a good time. You're not even afraid to get mail from your mailbox anymore.”

But others have a different mindset.

“I’m not afraid,” said an anonymous south Toledo resident. “I will never let anyone scare me from leaving my house. Sit outside.”

Police said they do not yet have a suspect in custody. If you have any information regarding the shooting, you are asked to call or text Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111. You can remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.