9 Wounded in Cincinnati Nightclub Shooting, FBI Joins Investigation

Federal authorities are assisting local police in the search for a suspect after the weekend incident at Riverfront Live music venue.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Nine people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after a shooting inside a Cincinnati nightclub early Sunday morning. The FBI has joined the Cincinnati Police Department in the investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is offering a $5,000 reward for information identifying a suspect. Authorities have not provided details on a motive for the shooting, which occurred almost simultaneously to a deadly bar shooting in Austin, Texas.

Why it matters

Nightclub shootings have become an all-too-common occurrence in the U.S., raising concerns about public safety and the need for improved security measures in entertainment venues. The involvement of federal law enforcement agencies suggests the Cincinnati shooting may have broader implications or connections that require further investigation.

The details

The shooting took place around 1 a.m. Sunday inside Riverfront Live, a music venue in Cincinnati. Nine people were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The FBI is working with the Cincinnati Police Department on the investigation, and the ATF has offered a $5,000 reward for information identifying a suspect. Authorities have not provided details on a motive for the shooting, and have stated it is not currently suspected to be an act of terrorism.

  • The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.

The players

Cincinnati Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the shooting incident.

FBI

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has joined the local police in the investigation.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

The federal agency that is offering a $5,000 reward for information identifying a suspect.

Riverfront Live

The music venue where the shooting took place.

Anton Canady

A 40-year-old Cincinnati resident who was present at the venue during the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think it was like they was doing it purposely or intentionally, I just think nobody wanted to die in there.”

— Anton Canady, Witness (The Associated Press)

“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.”

— Management representing DJ Fresh (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

This shooting highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring public safety at entertainment venues, and the need for improved security measures and protocols to prevent such incidents from occurring.