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Police are investigating a Facebook account that outlined plans for a "massacre" during a pub crawl in Leeds, after the suspect in a crossbow and firearms attack died from self-inflicted injuries.
Owen Lawrence, 38, has been identified as the main suspect in the incident, which occurred during the Otley Run in Headingley at 2:47pm on Saturday and left two women injured.
Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said officers are continuing their inquiries and urged anyone with information to come forward.
“We recognise the public’s concerns and the need for answers. Our team is fully committed to a thorough investigation to establish exactly what happened,” he said, confirming that no other suspects are being sought.
“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this incident,” police said.
Owen Lawrence was arrested and taken to hospital on Saturday, where he later died from self-inflicted injuries. Officers recovered a crossbow and a firearm at the scene.
Two women, aged 19 and 31, were injured in the attack. One of them, who had sustained life-threatening injuries, underwent surgery and was in stable condition in hospital on Sunday. The other woman had already been discharged.
Counter Terrorism Police confirmed they are examining a Facebook account that referenced an “Otley Run massacre,” claiming students, pub crawl participants, and police would be targeted. The posts also revealed the user had engaged with far-right ideologies and read writings by Brenton Tarrant, the perpetrator of the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks that killed 51 people.
Facebook has since removed the account and is working with authorities on the investigation.
The Otley Run, a popular pub crawl tradition for students involving 17 venues, was underway with participants in costume when the attack occurred. Local media reported that some individuals sought shelter in nearby restaurants.
A staff member at Heaney & Mill restaurant told Leeds Live: “I was working nearby and some girls sitting outside asked to come in because they’d seen someone with a crossbow.”
Leeds District Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Dodds, said police presence has been increased in the area and at local events in the days ahead.
“We fully understand the shock and worry this has caused in the Headingley community,” he said. “We’re working closely with partner agencies to support and reassure residents, businesses, students, and visitors in the area.”
