Key suspect named as police continue terrorism investigation following Headingley attack
A man arrested in connection with a disturbing crossbow and firearms attack in Leeds has died in hospital after suffering self-inflicted injuries, police have confirmed.
Owen Lawrence, 38, was identified as the sole suspect behind the violent incident that left two women injured in the busy Headingley area on Saturday afternoon.
Not Looking for Anyone Else
Counter Terrorism Policing North East confirmed Lawrence’s death, adding that no other individuals are being sought in relation to the attack. A crossbow and a firearm were recovered at the scene.2
The assault took place at around 2:47pm on Otley Road, coinciding with the city’s popular Otley Run – a lively student pub crawl involving 17 venues. The area was teeming with revellers in fancy dress, many of whom were caught up in the chaos.
Ongoing Terror Probe
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, urged anyone with further information to come forward.
“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,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this incident.” Authorities confirmed that Lawrence was taken to the hospital after his arrest on Saturday, but succumbed to his injuries.
Victims Identified
Two women, aged 19 and 31, sustained injuries during the incident. The younger victim underwent surgery for life-threatening wounds and remains in the hospital in a stable condition. The second woman has since been discharged.
Investigators are also examining Facebook posts believed to be connected to the case, as the terrorism investigation continues. These online activities are expected to play a significant role in understanding the attacker’s motive and mental state.
Further details on how social media activity, particularly Facebook posts, have become central to the counter-terrorism investigation can be found in our in-depth report on the Leeds crossbow attack and the online trail under police scrutiny.
The incident sent shockwaves through the Headingley community. Onlookers described scenes of panic as the attack unfolded.
A local restaurant worker recounted the fear witnessed on Otley Road: “I was at work at a nearby restaurant and some girls were sitting outside. They asked if they could come in and finish what they were having because they’d seen someone with a crossbow,” she told Leeds Live.
Leeds District Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Dodds, confirmed that police presence has been ramped up in the area to reassure the public.
“We fully appreciate the understandable shock and concern that this incident has caused in the Headingley community, and we are continuing to work closely alongside our partner agencies to support and reassure those living, working or studying in, or visiting the area,” he stated.
While the suspect is now deceased, the impact of the attack on Leeds’ Headingley community is still unfolding. With a full investigation underway and social media activity under scrutiny, authorities hope to uncover what led to this terrifying episode.
For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims, ensuring public safety, and delivering answers to a shaken community.
