Counter Terrorism Policing North East has taken over the investigation into a serious incident on Otley Road, Leeds, which left two women seriously injured earlier today.
Emergency services were called at 2:47pm following reports of a man seen wielding weapons, including a crossbow and a firearm, in the busy Headingley area. Officers quickly arrived at the scene and located three injured individuals — two women, who were taken to hospital with serious injuries, and a man who was later arrested.
The 38-year-old male suspect sustained a self-inflicted injury and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Two weapons have been recovered from the scene.
In an update at 10:40pm, Counter Terrorism Policing North East confirmed they are leading the investigation, supported by West Yorkshire Police, as extensive enquiries continue to establish the full circumstances and possible motives behind the attack.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said:
“Although our enquiries are still at a very early stage, the circumstances surrounding this incident have resulted in Counter Terrorism Policing taking the lead for this investigation. From the enquiries undertaken so far, there is no evidence to suggest anyone else was involved, and at this time, we are not looking for anyone else in relation to the incident.”
Assistant Chief Constable Carl Galvin of West Yorkshire Police added:
“Clearly, this has been a shocking incident and we fully realise the concern it has caused. We are doing everything possible to investigate and understand what took place. An extensive number of uniformed officers remain deployed in the Otley Road area to reassure residents and continue our enquiries.”
Police have thanked members of the public for their support at the scene and are urging people not to speculate online or share unverified information that could impact the ongoing investigation.
A large cordon remains in place across Otley Road, and residents are advised to stay updated through official police communications.
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact police on 101, quoting log number 925 of 26 April.
