A man suspected of carrying out a brutal crossbow attack in Leeds has died in hospital after sustaining self-inflicted injuries. West Yorkshire Police today named the suspect as 38-year-old Owen Lawrence, from Headingley.
Emergency services rushed to Otley Road, Headingley, at around 2.47pm on Saturday following reports of a serious incident involving a man armed with weapons. Upon arrival, officers discovered three people with injuries, including two women aged 19 and 31.
Both women were rushed to hospital in critical condition. One victim has since been discharged, while the other remains in hospital in a stable condition after undergoing surgery for life-threatening injuries.
Lawrence was also found injured at the scene and was arrested before being taken to hospital under police guard. In a statement issued today, West Yorkshire Police confirmed his death.
“We can confirm that the 38-year-old man who was arrested and taken to hospital on Saturday with a self-inflicted injury, has died,” the force said. “This man was the key suspect and we can name him as Owen Lawrence from Headingley, Leeds.
“We believe he was acting on his own and are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with this matter.”
The investigation is now being led by Counter Terrorism Policing North East to ensure all circumstances surrounding the attack are fully examined. A file will be prepared for the coroner.
The incident has left the Headingley community shocked, with police maintaining a visible presence in the area as enquiries continue.
