A man is in hospital with serious burns after a  suspected corrosive substance attack in York.

North Yorkshire Police said the incident happened at an address in Fossway, Heworth, at around 12.30am today (April 19).

A spokesperson for the force said: "We’re investigating a suspected corrosive substance attack on a man aged in his 30s who has been taken to hospital with serious burn injuries to his back.

"This is believed to have been an isolated and targeted incident with no wider threat to the public.

"There will be increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community."

The police added that ambulance and fire crews attended the scene along with the police.

York Press: Police at the scene todayPolice at the scene today (Image: Staff)

A police cordon remains in place around the address while inquiries continue, the force added.

At the scene in Fossway, residents told of their shock. 

A woman who didn't want to be identified told The Press: "I woke up at 12.30am - there was door slamming.

"I was just wondering 'what the hell is going on?'.

She added: "I was watching it for a bit out of the window (last night) but I just went to bed.

"I've lived here for 20 years now and I’ve seen stuff like this all the time on this street."

Stacey said that three fire engines arrived at the scene when she first woke up, adding that a temporary cordon was put in place on the road.

York Press: Police at the scenePolice at the scene (Image: Staff)

Another resident in Fossway, Victoria Fursden, spoke to The Press at the scene. 

She said: "It’s my morning off work and I've just come out to this - which is a bit alarming."

Tracy Ware, who lives nearby, saw the cordon and shared the concerns of fellow residents.

"I hope everybody’s alright," she said.

"I would say it’s unusual for this street."

North Yorkshire Police is asking witnesses or anyone with information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage of the incident to come forward as soon as possible.

If you can help, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option four, and speak to the Force Control Room.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or make an online report.

Please quote reference number 12240067920 when providing details.

  • A woman in her 40s has been arrested in connection with the incident. She has been taken into custody for questioning.