McDonald's Leeds: Police launch investigation following viral video of altercation outside St John's Centre

Tom Coates
By Tom Coates
Published 17th Mar 2023, 11:51 BST
Updated 17th Mar 2023, 11:56 BST
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Police are investigating an assault outside a McDonald’s in Leeds, after a video of an altercation involving security guards went viral.

The incident occurred outside the St Johns Centre McDonald’s at around 4am on Wednesday (March 15). It was not reported to police at the time but officers have obtained footage of the incident and have launched an investigation. Police are speaking to staff at the restaurant and have urged the members of the public involved to contact them.

A video circulating on TikTok appears to show a person being pushed to the ground by a security worker. A spokesperson for McDonald’s said: “The safety and security of our people and customers is our absolute priority, and we have asked the security company that employ the security guards to fully investigate the incident. We understand that the video clip in question shows only a small portion of a protracted incident.”

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A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said: “Police are appealing for information following an assault in Leeds city centre. The incident occurred outside McDonald’s in St Johns Centre at about 4am on Wednesday, 15 March.

Police are investigating an assault outside the McDonald's in St John's Centre, Leeds (Photo: James Hardisty)Police are investigating an assault outside the McDonald's in St John's Centre, Leeds (Photo: James Hardisty)
Police are investigating an assault outside the McDonald's in St John's Centre, Leeds (Photo: James Hardisty)

“It was not reported to police at the time, but footage has been obtained by officers and is being investigated. Neighbourhood officers are making enquiries with staff at the restaurant and urging the members of the public involved in this matter to contact the police, so that it can be investigated fully.

“Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Leeds City Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101, or by using the 101LiveChat. Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.”