Police issue arrest update on suspect who jumped from Centenary Bridge in Leeds into River Aire

A man who jumped into the River Aire in Leeds has been charged with assault.

Michael Varley, aged 37, of no fixed address, has been charged with a section 18 wounding with intent offence following an assault at Lovell Park on June 17.

Armed police were called to Leeds city centre on Friday evening (June 19) after officers sighted a wanted man at The Calls. The suspect then attempted to flee and was pursued by officers on foot. The man then climbed over the railings of Centenary Bridge and jumped into the water below.

He was rescued by personnel from West Yorkshire Fire Service before being checked over at the scene by Yorkshire Ambulance paramedics who ruled he had not sustained any serious injuries.

Varley has been remanded into custody to appear before Leeds Magistrates' Court today (Monday, June 22).