Crossbow Attacker Targets Women in Leeds Student Area Before Taking Own Life (video)

Owen Lawrence, 38, was arrested on suspicion of double attempted murder before dying of self-inflicted injuries

A violent rampage in Leeds left two women injured after a man armed with a crossbow and other weapons prowled a popular student street with the intent to kill. The attacker, identified as 38-year-old Owen Lawrence, posted a chilling manifesto online before launching the assault in the busy Otley Road area, known for its bar crawl culture.

Dressed in black and carrying a crossbow, break-barrel air rifle, and CO2 and ball-bearing guns, Lawrence made his way toward the Otley Run route around 3 PM. A video captured him en route to the attack, which was later confirmed to have specifically targeted women. Following the assault, Lawrence turned a shotgun on himself and later died in hospital.

A man can be seen prowling a street in Leeds with several weapons

Investigators recovered disturbing messages from his social media, where he outlined plans for what he called "The Otley Run massacre," describing it as a "spree killing, mass murder, terrorism" driven by "revenge" and "misogynistic rage." He admitted to harboring hatred for feminists and referenced exploring far-right ideologies. The post, which was later removed, has become central to the ongoing investigation.

Restaurant worker Bethany Connelly described the tense atmosphere before the attack, recalling that women dining outside requested to move indoors after spotting a man carrying a crossbow. Moments later, emergency services rushed to the scene. Another local, April Place, suggested that Lawrence’s dark attire and weaponry may have been initially mistaken for part of the typical fancy-dress bar crawl, adding that it’s common for pub-goers to wear costumes that include props like fake axes.

Various weapons, including a crossbow have been seized by police

Following the attack, police searched Lawrence’s flat nearby and uncovered further evidence related to his intentions. Authorities believe he was specifically targeting female students. Neighbors revealed that Lawrence had known mental health issues.

West Yorkshire Police quickly declared a major incident, and Counter Terrorism Policing North East took over the investigation to examine the potential ideological and psychological motivations behind the attack. Detective Chief Superintendent James Dunkerley confirmed the investigation would be thorough, noting the concern in the community and promising answers for the victims and their families.

Police said officers were working "at pace to establish the full facts and circumstances" of the incident

Leeds District Commander, Chief Superintendent Steve Dodds, assured residents of increased police presence and ongoing support in Headingley, the area most affected by the attack. He emphasized the importance of community vigilance and encouraged anyone witnessing suspicious behavior to report it immediately.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her condolences to those affected and confirmed she was receiving updates on the incident. She commended the swift actions of emergency services and extended support to the victims and local community.

Otley Road, the location of the attack, is home to one of the UK's most iconic pub crawls and would have been filled with students and visitors enjoying the weekend. The violent nature of the incident has shocked the city and raised fresh concerns about public safety, misogynistic violence, and online radicalization.

Video of the armed man prowling on the street