A 38-year-old man who shot two women with a crossbow during a violent rampage in Leeds has died from self-inflicted injuries, Counter Terrorism Police confirmed today. The attacker, identified as Owen Lawrence, carried out the assault in Headingley on Saturday afternoon, reportedly targeting female students along the Otley Run, a popular student pub crawl.
Lawrence was arrested shortly after the incident and taken to hospital, where he later died from injuries believed to have been self-inflicted.
Two Women Injured in Targeted Attack
The victims, aged 19 and 31, were both taken to hospital. One has since been discharged, while the other remains under care after undergoing surgery. Their injuries, though serious, are not believed to be life-threatening.
Authorities have confirmed that Lawrence acted alone and was the main suspect. No further suspects are being sought at this stage.
Attack Motivated by Misogynistic Extremism
A chilling Facebook post reportedly made by Lawrence outlined plans for “The Otley Run massacre,” describing the intended “attack type” as spree killing, mass murder, and terrorism, driven by misogynistic rage and far-right ideology.
The social media account, since taken down by Meta, included previous posts expressing hatred for feminists and other extremist views.
Weapons Recovered and Community Shaken
Police recovered both a crossbow and a break barrel air rifle from the scene. Video footage and witness statements suggest the suspect may have blended into the crowd, with students mistaking his weapons for part of a costume, due to the pub crawl’s tradition of extravagant fancy dress.
Locals described scenes of confusion and chaos, with revellers initially unaware of the seriousness of the attack. One café window was smashed, and the normally lively Otley Road was transformed into a major crime scene.
“It could have been much worse,” said one witness. “Students were running into pubs. No one knew what was happening.”
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said:
“We understand the concern this incident has caused and are conducting a thorough investigation. We continue to work with West Yorkshire Police and are grateful to the public for their support.”
Local councillors and community leaders have thanked emergency responders for their swift action and expressed support for those affected.
How You Can Help
Anyone with information, images, or video footage from the area around Headingley and Otley Road on the afternoon of Saturday, April 26, is urged to contact police or report anonymously to Crimestoppers.
