Gunfire erupted near Reading Road and Hutchins Avenue in Cincinnati’s Avondale neighborhood on Saturday afternoon, pulling in a heavy police and fire response and bringing traffic to a halt. The Cincinnati Fire Department rushed to a nearby strip mall after the shots apparently triggered a gas leak, and crews shut down lanes on Reading Road while they checked the area for any hazards. By early evening, authorities had not released any information about arrests or confirmed injuries.
According to WKRC Local 12, emergency crews were called to the intersection around 4:30 p.m. after reports of shots being fired, and the Cincinnati Fire Department later responded to the reported gas leak at the strip mall on Reading Road. Local 12 reported it was still unclear whether anyone had been injured or if any arrests had been made.
Investigation and scene
Cincinnati Police units stayed on scene into the evening, interviewing witnesses and working to secure evidence while fire crews focused on isolating the gas leak and making sure the strip mall and surrounding area were safe. Officers blocked lanes along Reading Road during the response, and investigators went door to door at nearby businesses looking for security video or any other leads that might help piece together what happened.
Neighborhood context
The tense response highlights ongoing public safety worries in Avondale. WLWT reported a fatal shooting on Hutchins Avenue on July 7, 2025, and WCPO has regularly covered other shootings along Reading Road and nearby blocks. Residents and local leaders have for years called for more resources and attention to address gun violence in the neighborhood.
What to expect next
According to WKRC Local 12, police said the investigation remains active and are asking anyone with information to contact Cincinnati Police. Officials had not released any suspect descriptions as of early evening. This story will be updated as city and police officials release additional details.
