In the early hours of March 1, 2026, the city of Cincinnati was rocked by a mass shooting at Riverfront Live, a popular music venue on Kellogg Avenue in the East End. The incident, which unfolded just after 1 a.m., left nine people injured and sent shockwaves through the local community, reigniting concerns about public safety at entertainment venues.
According to Cincinnati police and multiple local news outlets including WKRC, the shooting took place during the DJ Fresh Birthday Celebration—an annual event hosted by Jermaine Tandy, known in the city’s music scene as DJ Fresh. The event, which had drawn a sizable crowd eager for a night of music and celebration, quickly turned chaotic when gunshots rang out inside the venue. Surveillance footage from a nearby business, as reported by Fox 19, showed dozens of patrons fleeing in panic as the violence erupted.
Emergency responders arrived promptly, with detail officers already present at the event helping to coordinate the response. Interim Police Chief Adam Hennie confirmed at a press conference later that day that, "We believe right now we have nine victims that have non-life-threatening injuries from the gunshot wounds." Eight of those injured were transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, while one was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital. Hospital officials stated that two victims were treated and released, five were in stable condition, and one had initially been listed as critical but later stabilized. The status of the patient at Good Samaritan Hospital was not immediately disclosed, but by the afternoon, all nine victims were reported to be in stable condition.
The event’s organizers and venue management quickly issued statements expressing sorrow and frustration. DJ Fresh’s management team posted, "We are devastated by the horrific events that took place during the DJ Fresh Birthday Celebration. Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this senseless act of violence. This event was intended to be an opportunity for us to come together and enjoy great music; and have fun celebrating life, it is deeply frustrating that the actions of one individual ruined the evening for so many." The statement also clarified that, "security for Riverfront Live is the responsibility of the venue owners and management, (which we pay for when we rent out the building space) not DJ Fresh or the event hosts."
Tim Jordan, owner of Riverfront Live, echoed these sentiments, stating, "We are devastated by the violence of a few bad actors at what was otherwise a safe and fun night for our community. Safety has always and will always be our first priority. Our hearts are with the victims and their families." Jordan further explained that the venue employs metal detectors and pat-down procedures for all patrons, but he was unsure how the shooter managed to bring a weapon inside. In an interview, Jordan described the moment the violence began: "A gentleman pulled a weapon out and fired shots at another patron." He emphasized that the shooting appeared targeted, not random, but admitted that the motive remained unclear. He also announced that Riverfront Live would no longer work with outside promoters in the future, a move aimed at tightening security and oversight.
Witnesses from the surrounding area, including members of the band Solid Gold Dancer who were performing nearby at Murray’s Tavern, described scenes of confusion and fear. Sam Steinher, a band member, recounted, "We saw a bunch of people running from this side of the building while we were out on a break in between sets. At first, we didn't realize the severity of the situation. But someone said that people had been firing shots off." Fellow bandmate Cam Welling added that people began seeking shelter at Murray’s Tavern as the chaos unfolded. Both expressed relief that the injuries weren’t more severe and extended well-wishes to those affected.
City officials responded swiftly with statements of support and condemnation. Mayor Aftab Pureval called the shooting "unconscionable" and thanked first responders and hospital staff for their quick action, saying, "Overnight in the East End, our community was victim to a senseless mass shooting. Thank you to the officers on site, the first responders for their immediate action, and all the hospital staff who worked to save lives this morning. This is unconscionable. Our prayers are with all the victims, and Law Enforcement has our full support to deliver justice." City Councilmember Meeka Owens remarked, "What happened at Riverfront Live last night is a tragedy. Nine families received a call no one should ever have to receive, that their loved one was harmed in an act of senseless violence. Today, those families begin the long and painful road toward healing from trauma that will not quickly fade. This is one of the largest mass shooting incidents in Cincinnati’s history, and our entire community feels the weight of this moment."
Police have not yet released information about suspects or a possible motive. Chief Hennie noted, "We do not have any further information on the victims or what started this, or any information on the suspect or suspects at this time." However, it was confirmed that a firearm was recovered at the scene, and the Columbus branch of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is assisting Cincinnati police with the ongoing investigation. The presence of federal agents underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case, as they work to piece together what led to the outbreak of violence at what was supposed to be a night of celebration.
Initial confusion about the number of victims was clarified as the day went on. Early reports from the Citizen app and various social media posts suggested up to 13 people had been shot, with some victims reportedly transporting themselves to hospitals before first responders arrived. However, police later confirmed that the total number of injured stood at nine, all with non-life-threatening wounds.
The shooting also prompted a temporary closure of Kellogg Avenue near Lunken Airport and the Ohio River as police conducted their investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Videos circulating on social media showed a heavy police presence and a community deeply shaken by the night’s events. Residents expressed their concern and support for the victims online, with one local writing, "Check on your people. Multiple people shot at Riverfront Live."
As the investigation continues, Riverfront Live faces questions about its security protocols and future operations. Owner Tim Jordan has left it up to upcoming event organizers to decide whether to proceed or cancel, but has made clear that significant changes are on the horizon for the venue’s management and safety measures.
While the city waits for answers, the impact of the shooting lingers. For the families of the victims and the wider Cincinnati community, the trauma of that night will not soon be forgotten. The hope now is that justice will be served and that steps will be taken to prevent such tragedies from recurring.