Arrest after alleged firearm ‘discharge’ outside York Mosque

The incident happened outside York Mosque and Islamic Centre on Bull Lane at 2.19am this morning.

A 44-year-old man from York, described by police as a white UK national, was arrested following the incident.

A police guard is behind a cordon at the entrance to the York Mosque and Islamic Centre this morning (Thursday, July 30) (Image: Kevin Glenton)

No one was injured, and police said the weapon is alleged to have been an air rifle.

Police said the man left the scene in a silver vehicle, which was traced by officers, leading to his arrest.

He remains in custody for questioning.

A cordon has been raised at the entrance to the mosque and is under police guard this morning.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “It is too early to say what may have been the motivation behind this disturbing incident, but our Muslim community in York can be reassured that we are doing everything we can to establish the full circumstances.

“We are also providing high-visibility patrols in the vicinity of York Mosque as people attend for prayer.

“Our officers are due to meet with the Imam regarding the incident.”

Bull Lane is off Lawrence Street in York (Image: Kevin Glenton)

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, quoting reference number 12260145924.