Police launch appeal as man 'wielding screwdriver' arrested after deliberate fire at Leeds General Infirmary

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West Yorkshire Police has launched an appeal for witnesses after a fire was started in the A&E department of Leeds General Infirmary yesterday (Thursday 21 January).

Last night, officers arrested a 43-year-old man on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life.

West Yorkshire Police have confirmed that they were called to the hospital on Great George Street at 5.54pm.

The A&E department of the hospital was evacuated and a fire Credit: Editorial

Officers received reports that a man with a screwdriver was causing damage in a unit and attempting to start a fire.The man was also alleged to have been "making threats" and was promptly arrested by police. He remains in police custody at this time.

Detective Inspector James Entwistle from West Yorkshire Police said:

The A&E department of the hospital was evacuated and a fire was discovered inside before being extinguished by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

A fire was discovered inside before being extinguished Credit: Editorial

Witnesses reported that corridors were "filled with smoke" and videos from the scene show multiple emergency service vehicles in attendance.

Staff and patients have returned to the hospital and police say no-one was injured in the incident.