Shooting outside York mosque sparks investigation, 44-year-old man arrested

A 44-year-old man has been arrested following a shooting incident outside York Mosque and Islamic Centre in the city of York, North Yorkshire, England.

A 44-year-old man has been arrested following a shooting incident outside York Mosque and Islamic Centre in the city of York, North Yorkshire, England. Police confirmed that no one was injured in the incident, while an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is underway.

According to British media reports, the firing took place outside the mosque located on Bull Lane in York on Thursday. Following the incident, North Yorkshire Police arrested a local white British man in connection with the alleged shooting.

Police officials said the weapon used in the incident is believed to have been an air weapon, similar to an air gun. Authorities traced the suspect after he reportedly left the scene in a silver-coloured vehicle and later took him into custody for questioning.

The suspect remains in police custody as officers continue their investigation. Police have not yet confirmed the motive behind the incident and stated that it would be too early to draw conclusions about the reasons behind the concerning event.

North Yorkshire Police assured the Muslim community in York that every effort is being made to establish the full circumstances and identify the factors that led to the incident. Authorities said additional patrols will continue in the area around the mosque, particularly during prayer times when worshippers gather.

Police officials also said officers would meet with the mosque’s imam as part of efforts to provide reassurance and maintain community safety. The authorities emphasized that the safety of residents and worshippers remains a priority during the ongoing investigation.

Investigators have appealed to witnesses and members of the public who may have relevant information to come forward. People with CCTV footage, mobile recordings, or dashcam footage from the area have been requested to share any material that could assist the investigation.

The incident has raised concerns among members of the local Muslim community, although police have stressed that the investigation is still at an early stage. Authorities continue to examine all available evidence to determine the motive and circumstances behind the shooting.

North Yorkshire Police have urged anyone with information related to the incident to contact them or provide details through Crime Stoppers to help officers complete their investigation.