Ohio Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Man in Festival Shooting

Eljay Crisp-Carr was released after spending about five months in jail. He had faced more than 50 felony counts, including attempted murder, in connection with the June 6 shooting at the Old West End Festival in Toledo, Ohio. A judge approved the prosecution’s request to dismiss the charges without prejudice, which leaves prosecutors legally able to bring them again.

Lucas County Prosecuting Attorney Julia Bates said her office had received evidence that could support Crisp-Carr’s defense. She said Toledo police are continuing to investigate and that authorities aim to follow the evidence. Crisp-Carr’s lawyer had maintained that police arrested the wrong person. His defense team has said video and cellphone evidence supported an alibi.

Twelve people, ranging in age from 14 to 61, were wounded in the gunfire. Police said a dispute between rival groups apparently escalated, with two people shooting at each other; neither was among the injured. The festival’s second day was canceled.

Another man charged in the case remains in custody and is scheduled to return to court on November 9. A 17-year-old suspect was also reported to face pending charges.