A man who saw tonight's dramatic scenes unfold in Leeds has suggested that a previous police incident sparked the chaotic scenes in which a van was set on fire.
Around 100 youngsters pelted police officers with bricks during a terrifying riot in Halton Moor this evening (Thursday) as a Crime Scene Investigation vehicle was set alight on Ullswater Crescent.
"I heard a big explosion so I came out," said the man, who did not wish to be named.
"When I came to the end of the street I just saw a Crime Scene van just in a blaze. There were about 200 people out here nosying about."
To see how the chaos unfolded in Halton Moor - CLICK HERE
The incident started at around 6pm and continued throughout the evening - but allegedly it wasn't the first clash between police and people on the estate.
"Two weeks ago it was the same," said the local resident. "A police car getting smashed up.
"I think that was over something different. An argument with a copper.... They smashed the cop car window through.
"It's mental. It's like going back to what it was like in the 80's. It's bringing everything back from years ago.
"I haven't got a clue whether it'll die down or carry on. Probably carry on."
West Yorkshire Police released a short statement to explain they attended a 'disturbance' on Ullswater Crescent following damage to a vehicle.
"No-one was injured and officers are scene to contain the situation which remains ongoing," said a spokesperson for the force.
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