Man arrested over Leeds crossbow incident which seriously injured two women has died

A man being investigated by counter terror police over a crossbow and firearm attack has died in hospital.

The 38-year-old man was detained following the incident on Saturday which left two women, aged 19 and 31, seriously injured.

Officers were called to Otley Road in Headingley, Leeds, to reports of a "serious incident involving a man seen with weapons", West Yorkshire Police said.

The suspect - who was found with a self-inflicted injury - has been named as Owen Lawrence from Headingley.

Police confirmed his death and said he is believed to have acted on his own.

West Yorkshire Police said on Monday that one of the victims has been discharged from hospital, while the other has undergone surgery for life-threatening injuries.

The force added that she is now recovering in hospital and is in a stable condition.

Counter Terrorism Policing North East is continuing to investigate the incident following Lawrence's death.

Posts on two Facebook accounts that appear to be linked to Lawrence include images of a gun and makeshift wooden knives, as well as a rambling entry setting out an apparent plan to kill people taking part in the Otley Road Run pub crawl.

He also refers to victims including "neurotypicals and police, if I need to", and says that he has "explored far-right ideas" including the conspiracy theory referred to as the great replacement.

Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said: "Officers will continue to conduct enquiries and we ask that if anyone has information that may assist, to pass this to police.

"We understand there are concerns around the incident, and questions about how and why this has happened. Our teams are committed to carrying out an in-depth investigation to provide answers to those affected.

"We continue to work closely with West Yorkshire Police to support the local community and thank residents for their support and understanding over the weekend.

"Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this incident."

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It comes a day after proposals designed to tighten the law around crossbow sales were put forward by the government.

Home Office minister Dame Diana Johnson said amendments tabled to the Crime and Policing Bill aim to strengthen age verification controls on both the online sale and delivery of the weapon.

Dame Diana also expressed concerns about how people can go online and "in a few clicks" buy a crossbow, as she signalled the government intends to bring forward further measures.

Her remarks came during an urgent question in the House of Commons about the attack in Leeds.

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