Police have launched an investigation after a weapon was fired in Woodhouse last night and man was seen in the street with what appeared to be a firearm.
West Yorkshire Police confirmed that officers were called to Woodhouse Street at 6.47pm on Tuesday after several loud bangs were heard in the area. The force said it was reported that a male was seen in the road near the junction with Pennington Street carrying what appeared to be a firearm.
Police are appealing for information as a cordon on Woodhouse Street remains in place on Wednesday. Detectives sought to assure the public that the criminal use of firearms is something they treat "extremely seriously" and promised that extensive enquiries will continue to identify those involved.
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A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: "Detectives are appealing for information following a firearm discharge in Leeds. At 6.47pm last night, police were called to Woodhouse Street following reports of loud bangs being heard and a male being seen in the street with what appeared to be a firearm.
"The incident occurred near to the junction with Pennington Street. A scene has been put in place to undergo forensic examination and specialist searches. Detectives from West Yorkshire Police Firearms Prevent Investigation Team are leading the investigation."
Detective Inspector Phil Hughes said: “The criminal use of firearms is something we will always treat extremely seriously, and we are carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the full circumstances and identify those involved.
"We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed any part of this incident or who has any information that could assist the investigation, particularly anyone who was driving in the area and has relevant dashcam footage.
“We appreciate that an incident of this nature will cause understandable concern in the community, and we will be continuing to liaise with our colleagues at Leeds District who will be maintaining an increased presence in the area to reassure people.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers via 101 quoting crime reference 13230328449 or online via the live chat facility. Information can be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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