Huge emergency response sparked as cars explode in flames in Huddersfield

11 August 2023 , 21:25

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A fire has broken out at a bar and grill in Huddersfield (Image: Yorkshire Live WS)

Cars were seen engulfed in flames outside a restaurant following a horror smash involving multiple vehicles - one of which was being chased by police.

Dramatic scenes unfolded outside the bar and kitchen in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, on Friday night, as cars smashed and were seen ablaze. One of the cars, a black Golf, was being pursued by officers at the time, West Yorkshire Police confirmed.

The force said one man was hospitalised while two others were also injured in the smash. The Golf driver was later arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

Eyewitnesses reported cars exploding as bar staff confirmed all staff and customers were safe. Harvey's Bar & Kitchen said in a brief statement on social media: "There’s has been a major issue on Penistone road near us.

"All team and customers are safe and well thank you for your concerns and messages. Emergency services are still present and we are working with them."

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Dramatic scenes unfolded outside the bar and restaurant (Yorkshire Live WS)

A police spokesman said: "It took place at 8.50pm after a black Volkswagen Golf was in collision with vehicles causing extensive damage. The driver and passenger of one of the vehicles received serious but non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to hospital. Persons from the other vehicles received minor injuries.

"The black VW Golf had failed to stop for police in the Shelley area about five minutes before the collision and officers were in the early stages of a pursuit when the collision took place. The driver of the Golf, a 20-year-old man, was taken to hospital following the collision and has now been discharged. He has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and is in police custody for questioning."

Sergeant Cameron Buchan of West Yorkshire Police's roads unit said: “Multiple enquiries remain ongoing today into what has very clearly been an extremely serious collision. Frankly, it is very fortunate the consequences were not even worse and I am appealing for anyone who saw what happened or has footage of the collision itself to come forwards.

“Our officers would also like to speak with anyone who saw or has footage of the black VW Golf driving shortly before this collision took place – especially those with Dash Cam recordings. “

Anyone who can help the investigation is asked to contact the Western Area Roads Policing Unit on 101 or online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/101livechat referencing crime number 13230447917.

Susie Beever