Police hunt Toyota as murder investigation launched into Wakefield shooting
A 50 year old local man died in hospital after being shot last night
Last updated 13th Aug 2025
Police have released details of a car they're looking for, as a murder investigation continues following a fatal shooting in Wakefield last night.
Police were called to Doncaster Road at 9:43pm to reports of shots being fired.
A 50 year old local man was taken to hospital with serious injuries, where he later died. His family is being supported by specialist officers.
Searches are ongoing for a bluey-grey coloured Toyota RAV4, with a cloned licence plate with the number FV53FXT.
The vehicle has bull lights on the roof above the windscreen and may now be displaying different plates.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, of West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team, said: “A man has lost his life, and it is an absolute priority for us to understand the circumstances of what has taken place and identify anyone who has had any involvement in this incident.
“We understand that the vehicle used in this offence was on false plates and was stolen in a burglary in Castleford on 3 August."
"The vehicle is particularly distinctive because of the bull lights fitted to the vehicle. We are interested in speaking to anyone who believes they have seen this RAV4 following this burglary, around the time of this offence and since.
"The vehicle may now be displaying different plates.
“Motorists who were in the Doncaster Road area last night who have dashcams fitted are also asked to check whether they have captured any footage of this vehicle.
"The driver was driving in the direction of Wakefield before they have turned around near the BP petrol station immediately prior to the shooting and then driven off in the direction they came from.
“We understand the shock and concern that an incident of this nature will cause, particularly given that a firearm has been involved.
"We are dedicating significant resources to this investigation and our neighbourhood policing colleagues are supporting this with an increased presence in the area to provide reassurance to the community.”