Emergency Search Underway in Leeds River After Sighting

Authorities are conducting searches in the River Aire within Leeds city centre following reports of an individual being observed in the water on Monday evening. The sighting occurred approximately at 23:15 GMT, specifically in the river section located behind Asda House on Great Wilson Street. Emergency services, including police officers, fire brigades, and ambulance paramedics, were dispatched to the location. According to West Yorkshire Police, initial search efforts by emergency personnel were unsuccessful in locating the individual, and operations to find them are ongoing. The police force also specified that the person was dressed in a black hooded top with the hood raised, form-fitting black trousers, and black and white trainers. Investigators are currently endeavoring to ascertain the identity of the individual, who was also observed carrying a black backpack. Members of the public possessing relevant information are urged to contact the police. The West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that its teams deployed sleds to enter the water and conduct searches, supported by a police helicopter, but no individual was discovered within the river.