Counter-terrorism police in Leeds are conducting an investigation into an alleged attack that took place over the weekend involving a crossbow and a firearm. The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon on Otley Road, a popular strip known for the Otley Run – a well-known pub crawl involving 17 venues often frequented by students in fancy dress.

West Yorkshire Police were called to the scene at 2:47pm following reports of a “serious ongoing incident” in which a man was seen carrying weapons. Authorities subsequently arrested a 38-year-old man at the location. He sustained self-inflicted injuries and remains hospitalised in critical condition.

Two women, aged 19 and 31, were also injured during the incident. According to police updates, one of the women suffered life-threatening injuries and had to undergo surgery; she is currently recovering in hospital in a stable condition. The other woman was discharged after treatment.

The discovery of both a crossbow and a firearm was confirmed by police, who stated that they are not currently seeking any additional suspects. Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, described the event as an "isolated incident" and assured the public that officers are working “at pace to establish the full facts and circumstances of Saturday’s incident.”

Local witnesses reported heightened alarm during the event. One employee at the nearby Heaney & Mill restaurant told Leeds Live that patrons of a neighbouring establishment had sought refuge inside after spotting the man with a crossbow. She recounted, “some girls were sitting outside. They asked if they could come in and finish what they were having because they’d seen someone with a crossbow.”

Authorities are currently examining Facebook posts as part of their ongoing investigation and are aware of footage circulating on social media relating to the incident. Police have urged anyone with information or who witnessed the event to come forward.

Assistant Chief Constable Carl Galvin of West Yorkshire Police noted that police scenes remained in place throughout the subsequent day and that uniformed officers continued to be highly visible in the area to reassure the local community, business owners, and partners.

This investigation remains active, with counter-terrorism officials leading the operation.

Source: Noah Wire Services