Parents are being re-assured that pupils and staff at Birstall Primary Academy are safe after the school was locked down following a shooting nearby.
The Labour MP for Batley and Spen Jo Cox is in a critical condition and a man has been injured following the incident at the town library which prompted a police presence across the area.
Kirklees council has published the following statement on its website: –
“Due to ongoing events in Birstall the school has been advised by Police to remain on lockdown. All staff and pupils are safe. The school will provide more information to parents when available.”
A 52-year-old man has been arrested following the incident, but it is not yet known if this means the lockdown will be lifted.
West Yorkshire Police has confirmed officers were called to Market Street, Birstall at 12.53pm today, and that a woman in her 40s had suffered “serious injuries” and is in a “critical condition”.
A man in his late 40s to early 50s nearby also suffered slight injuries, the police said.
“Armed officers attended and a 52-year-old man was arrested in the area. There are no further details at present.
“Police presence in the area has been increased as a reassurance to the community.”
UPDATE: In a recent tweet, the school said that access was “still restricted”, adding that pupils would be leaving school through its School Street gate. It has asked parents to arrive via Gelded Road.
Police confirmed shortly after 5pm that Cox had died as a result of her injuries.
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