Residents of Leeds have come together in solidarity after a shocking crossbow and firearm attack left two women seriously injured over the weekend.
West Yorkshire Police were called to Otley Road at 2:47pm on Saturday following reports of a man seen with weapons. Upon arrival, officers found three individuals with injuries—two women who were hospitalised with serious wounds and a 38-year-old man, who was arrested after sustaining a self-inflicted injury. A crossbow and firearm were recovered at the scene.
Counter Terrorism Policing North East has since taken over the investigation due to the circumstances surrounding the incident. They confirmed that no evidence suggests anyone else was involved, and that extensive enquiries remain ongoing to determine the full motivation behind the attack.
Community Response
Headingley and Hyde Park Ward Councillor Tim Goodall described the mood in the community as “shocked but united.” He said:
“Residents are shocked. I’m really feeling for anyone directly affected. When I was there yesterday evening it was quite a subdued atmosphere but today, people were stopping to chat and reassure each other.”
Local churches quickly responded, offering spaces for reflection and prayer. St Michael’s Church held a service on Saturday evening, and prayers were offered again during Sunday morning services. Bishop of Kirkstall, Arun Arora, expressed support for the victims and gratitude towards emergency responders:
“We will continue to pray for those who were injured and those who witnessed the attack. We are thankful for the emergency services who attended the incident.”
Incident and Investigation
The attack took place in a busy area popular with students and visitors participating in the Otley Run pub crawl. Some venues, including Taylor’s Sports Bar and Grill, closed temporarily following the incident.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her concern, stating her thoughts were with the victims and that she was being kept updated on the developing situation.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley of Counter Terrorism Policing North East stressed:
“There is no evidence to suggest anyone else was involved. We are keeping an open mind as we gather as much information as possible to understand exactly what happened.
Assistant Chief Constable Carl Galvin praised the swift response from both emergency services and members of the public, and urged the community not to speculate online while the investigation remains active.
Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward.
