Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses following a fatal incident in Seacroft earlier this month, as detectives work to establish exactly what happened.
The investigation relates to an altercation on Ramshead Crescent on the evening of Thursday, July 9, which resulted in a 43-year-old man suffering serious injuries.
In a statement, Detectives from the West Yorkshire Police Homicide and Major Enquiry Team said: “We are appealing to anyone who was in the Ramshead Crescent area on the evening of Thursday 9 July. If you witnessed the altercation, or if you have any mobile phone or dashcam footage of the vehicles involved, please come forward immediately. Even the smallest piece of information could be vital to our case.”
The Investigation Timeline
The prosecution stems from a violent driving-related dispute that took place on Thursday 9 July in the Ramshead Crescent area of Seacroft. Investigators revealed that a confrontation between the two men escalated rapidly, leaving 43-year-old Mark Shaw with critical injuries.
Emergency services rushed Mr Shaw to a local hospital, where doctors fought for days to save his life. However, he succumbed to his injuries on the evening of Monday 13 July.
Legal Developments
The investigation has now culminated in a murder charge, with a 27-year-old local man appearing before Leeds Crown Court today following the death of his victim.
Hayden Clarke, of Halton Moor Road, spoke only to confirm his identity as he was formally remanded in custody for the murder of Mr Shaw.
Clarke was originally arrested and brought before Leeds Magistrates’ court on Tuesday 14 July, initially facing a charge of Section 18 assault (wounding with intent). Following the news of Mr Shaw’s death, prosecutors immediately amended the indictment to murder during that initial hearing.
Next Steps Set by Court
During today’s brief Crown Court hearing, the judge remanded Clarke back into custody and established the next steps for the judicial process:
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Plea Hearing: Clarke is scheduled to return to court on 10 September to enter his formal plea.
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Trial Date: A provisional five-day criminal trial has been scheduled to begin early next year on 12 January 2027.
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