A 44-year-old man has been arrested following a firearm discharge outside the York Mosque and Islamic Centre in York, England. The incident occurred around 2:15 a.m. British Summer Time on Bull Lane.
North Yorkshire Police reported that the arrested individual is a white UK national from York. He left the scene in a silver vehicle before being apprehended by authorities. The suspect is currently in custody and is being questioned.
Officials believe the weapon used was an air rifle, and no injuries were reported as a result of the discharge. "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," a statement from North Yorkshire Police said.
In response to the event, police are increasing visible patrols in the vicinity of the mosque to ensure the safety of worshippers. Officers are also scheduled to meet with the mosque's imam. Authorities are appealing to the public for any information, including witness accounts, CCTV footage, or dashcam recordings, that could assist with the ongoing investigation.