Man arrested after staff member shot with crossbow on University of Surrey campus
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after a staff member was shot with a crossbow at the University of Surrey.
- The victim, a man in his 50s working for the campus safety team, sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital.
- Police detained a former student at the scene, and the university campus remains open and operational while investigations continue.
A serious incident unfolded at the University of Surrey's Manor Park Student Village when a staff member was shot with a crossbow. Police were called to the scene on Thursday morning following reports of the attack. A man in his 50s, identified as a member of the university's campus safety team, was seriously injured and transported to a hospital for treatment.
Surrey Police quickly responded, arresting a 21-year-old former student of the university on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect was detained at the scene shortly after the incident occurred. A significant emergency services presence remained at the location as investigations commenced.
An investigation is now under way to establish the circumstances of the assault.
"An investigation is now under way to establish the circumstances of the assault," stated Ch Supt Jon Groenen. He acknowledged the potential concern the incident might cause within the local community and assured that police are working closely with the university. The University of Surrey confirmed it is providing full support to the police investigation and stated that the campus remains open and operational.
Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information pertinent to the assault to come forward. The victim's next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from officers. The investigation aims to determine the full details surrounding the crossbow attack.
I appreciate that this incident will cause concern amongst our local communities. We are working closely with the university as our investigation progresses.
Originally published by BBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.