Man charged after ‘shot fired’ outside York Mosque – police

North Yorkshire Police said there has been “no evidence uncovered” to suggest the alleged firing of the rifle in Bull Lane during the early hours of Thursday (July 30) was “motivated by anything ideological” or “hate-related”.

The force said there was also no evidence to suggest the alleged incident was “specifically targeted against the Muslim community in York”.

Police said a 44-year-old York man arrested in connection with the investigation has been charged with possessing a loaded air weapon, a .22 air rifle, in a public place.

He has been bailed with conditions, including to keep away from York Mosque, and is due to appear at York Magistrates’ Court on September 21, police said.

No one was injured during the alleged incident and the mosque has since resumed its daily prayers.

York Mosque in Bull Lane (Image: Dylan Connell)

Superintendent Ed Haywood-Noble, senior operational commander for York and Selby, said it had been a “worrying time for everyone connected to York Mosque”, but the police investigation “has not identified an intention to cause injuries or distress to people”.

He said high-visibility police patrols will continue around the mosque in the coming days “as life begins to return to normal in the area” to “provide added reassurance for everyone in the city”.

“I again thank York Mosque for their understanding and patience during this time, and also our community partners and residents who have given so much support to the intensive police investigation,” Supt Haywood-Noble said.

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York Mosque’s president, Mohamad Douba, said the mosque has been “overwhelmed by the many messages of support we have received” after the alleged incident. “Once again, York has shown that our community stands together with kindness, resilience and unity,” he said.

Mr Douba said he did “not believe there is any further risk to those attending the mosque”, adding: “We remain hopeful that this will prove to be an isolated incident.

“York has always been a city built on mutual respect, friendship and understanding and we remain confident in the strength of our community to continue supporting one another.

“We would like to thank everyone for their patience, understanding and prayers, as well as North Yorkshire Police for their swift response and ongoing support.”

Police urge witnesses or anyone with information about the alleged incident to phone 101.

Information can be passed anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Quote reference number 12260145924 when providing information to police or to Crimestoppers.