9 Wounded in Cincinnati Nightclub Shooting, FBI Joins Investigation

Authorities search for suspect after incident at Riverfront Live music venue

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Federal authorities have joined local police in the search for a suspect after a weekend shooting at a Cincinnati nightclub left nine people wounded 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 the suspect.

Why it matters

Nightclub shootings are a concerning trend in the U.S., raising public safety concerns and questions about security measures at entertainment venues. This incident comes shortly after a deadly bar shooting in Austin, Texas, though authorities have not indicated any link between the two events.

The details

The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. Sunday inside the Riverfront Live music venue in Cincinnati. All nine victims were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Witnesses described hearing 'commotion' that sounded like a fight before the gunshots rang out. The venue was hosting a birthday celebration at the time of the incident.

  • The shooting occurred around 1 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • The FBI joined the Cincinnati Police Department's investigation on Monday, March 3, 2026.

The players

Cincinnati Police Department

The local law enforcement agency leading the investigation into the nightclub shooting.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that has joined the investigation and is working with the Cincinnati Police Department.

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

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

Riverfront Live

The Cincinnati music venue where the shooting took place, which has previously been known by other names such as Stage Forty-Three and Inner Circle.

Anton Canady

A 40-year-old Cincinnati resident who was at Riverfront Live during the shooting and helped protect his girlfriend as they tried to escape.

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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 post)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

This shooting highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring public safety at entertainment venues, even as the motives and circumstances behind such incidents remain unclear. Authorities will need to carefully investigate the details to determine if any security or policy changes are warranted to prevent similar occurrences in the future.