Former student arrested after man shot with crossbow at University of Surrey

Saudi national, 21, held on suspicion of attempted murder over incident at Manor Park student village in Guildford

A former University of Surrey student has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a man was shot with a crossbow in Guildford.

The victim, who is in his 50s and a member of the university’s campus safety team, was seriously injured in the incident and is being treated at Royal Surrey County hospital close to the scene of the shooting.

Officers were called to reports of a crossbow shooting that took place at about 9.50am on Thursday at Manor Park student village. A 21-year-old suspect from Saudi Arabia is in police custody.

In a police statement, Ch Supt Jon Groenen said: “I appreciate that this incident will cause concern amongst our local communities, and I can reassure that we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this incident. We are working closely with the university as our investigation progresses.

“The suspect was detained at the scene shortly after the incident and an investigation is now under way to establish the circumstances of the assault.”

He said the victim remained in a serious condition in hospital and his next of kin were being supported by officers.

A spokesperson for the university said a member of the campus safety team was seriously injured and was receiving medical care. “Surrey police are leading the investigation and we are giving them our full support,” they added.

Surrey police said there was a significant security presence at the scene but the university campus remained open.

Officers appealed for anyone with information to contact the force or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.