Two arrested over Leeds teenager’s machete attack released on bail

The 16-year-old victim was slashed across the face in the incident on Lingfield Drive in Moortown on Monday night.

It is believed she was targeted by an armed male shortly before 8.30pm after she was involved in a pre-arranged fight with another girl.

She was taken to Leeds General Infirmary with serious injuries and remained in hospital today in a stable condition.

A 15-year-old girl and a 20-year-old man were arrested and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Police are still looking for others who may have been involved.

Martyn Watson, who works at Lingfield Fisheries, said a large group of girls and boys had congregated earlier in the evening.

He said: “When there’s a fight going to happen, there’s usually a bit of tension, but I didn’t sense it at all.

“It’s absolutely horrifying and she’s lucky it wasn’t worse. I’ve been here about four and a half years and it’s the first time anything like this has happened.”

The victim was in a stable condition last night.

Det Insp Sean Duggan, of Leeds District CID, said enquiries were ongoing to trace other suspects and added: “This appears to have been a targeted attack that may have resulted from an earlier fight involving the victim and another girl.

“I would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information that could assist the investigation.”

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team have increased patrols in the area to reassure the local community.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Leeds District CID via 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.