Toledo panel addresses gun violence during awareness month after recent shootings

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - Toledo city officials, community leaders and neighbors gathered at the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library Thursday evening to discuss ways to end gun violence in the community.

The panel comes during Gun Violence Awareness Month and follows several recent shootings in Toledo.

“We’ve been planning this panel for kind of a while. It is especially pertinent considering what happened in our city not too long ago,” said Councilwoman Erin Kramer.

Recent festival shooting prompts community discussion

The discussion focused on the recent gun violence that has affected the city, including a mass shooting at the Old West End Festival.

“The event that happened at the Old West End Festival is something that affects everyone in our community. No matter where you live, you could’ve been there, you know somebody who was there, you’ve heard stories about it and you worry about being safe when you go to any of our events,” Kramer said.

Thursday’s panel featured five panelists. Aviance Hill, one of the panelists, co-founded the gun violence awareness advocacy group Sisters 4 Unity with three other mothers. Hill’s son, Isaac Carpenter, was shot and killed nearly four years ago.

“All four of our sons were murdered due to gun violence, so it is important that this membership doesn’t grow. We don’t want to keep having more mothers and fathers joining this membership, so it is important that we bring awareness to gun violence so we can end gun violence,” said Hill, who is with Northwest Ohio Parents of Murdered Children.

Hill said the mass shooting at the Old West End Festival is a reminder that there is more work to do.

“Not only did it impact the actual victims that were harmed by the actual violence, but it impacted our city as a whole. People felt violated,” Hill said.

Panelists offer solutions

The panel concluded with panelists sharing their thoughts on solutions to prevent future gun violence.

Kramer said gun locks are available free for anyone 18 and older at every branch of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library.

“So, if anybody needs a gun lock, they can go get one today,” Kramer said.

Hill encouraged community members to take action.

“Do something about it. Show up. Don’t just provide lip service. Show up, in your own way, in your own part, show up and do some work. Put some boots on the ground,” Hill said.

Two community events are scheduled for July 2: the Peace Over Pain Community Cookout and the Save Our Community Ceasefire Event.

Latest Local News | First Alert Weather | Crime | National | 13abc Originals