Crossbow Chaos in Headingley: Three Hurt in Broad Daylight Attack
Three people were injured after a man armed with a crossbow and an arsenal of weapons sparked panic in broad daylight on Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds. West Yorkshire Police launched a huge operation after being called just before 3pm today.
Armed Suspect Caught at Scene
The suspect carried a crossbow, guns, a rifle, and a bat, causing mayhem amid crowds celebrating the famous Otley Run pub crawl. Armed officers quickly swooped in and detained the man at the scene. The three victims suffered injuries, but police have confirmed they are not life-threatening.
Police Lock Down Otley Road Amid Public Safety Fears
Emergency services have sealed off Otley Road and surrounding streets with multiple cordons. Heavy police presence remains as investigators probe the terrifying incident, which is believed to link to social media threats targeting the Otley Run – a student favourite.
“Police were called to Otley Road, Leeds at 2.47pm today to reports of an ongoing serious incident involving a man seen with weapons.
Officers attended and located three people who had suffered injuries which are at this time not being treated as life-threatening.
A male suspect was located and detained.
Inquiries are in their initial stages to determine the wider circumstances of what has taken place and further updates will follow.
A number of police scenes remain in place and ensuring public safety remains our priority.”
Eyewitnesses Describe Harrowing Scenes
Buses were stopped and passengers evacuated amid chaos. Local worker Bethany Connelly said:
“Some girls rushed inside saying they’d seen someone carrying a crossbow. Minutes later, police and ambulances were everywhere, and the roads were blocked off.”
The Otley Run pub crawl was in full swing, with punters hitting 14 venues as part of the end-of-term celebrations. Nearby Woodies Pub confirmed that the area around St Chad’s Drive remains cordoned off with restricted access.
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. If you witnessed the incident or have tips, contact West Yorkshire Police on 101 quoting the incident reference for 26 April.
