Man, 21, charged with attempted murder after Surrey University staff member shot with crossbow | UK news
A man has been charged with attempted murder after a staff member was shot with a crossbow at the University of Surrey.
Surrey police said Saudi national Almunthir Daqamah, 21, was charged with attempted murder, possession of an offensive weapon, two counts of possession of a bladed instrument and possession of class B drugs.
Daqamah is a former student of the university. He was remanded in custody and is expected to appear at Guildford Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
A campus security guard in his 50s is in stable condition at the hospital.
Police are not treating the incident as terrorism-related.
Officers were called to the student village, west of Guildford, at 10am on Thursday after reports of a serious assault.
Police presence continues in the area to ensure security.
Hiya Biswas, 19, a first-year law student, described the campus security guard as “very cheerful and smiling.” The Press Association told students they were “very shaken” by what happened and said it was “appalling” that the incident happened so close and on the university campus.
Divisional Officer Jon Groenen said: “We know how worrying this incident is to both the university community and those living here in Guildford, and our officers are working rapidly to establish the full circumstances of what happened.
“There is nothing to suggest this incident is linked to terrorism and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
“We continue to work closely with the university and at this time I would ask people to refrain from speculating online to protect the integrity of the investigation. If you have any information that could assist our inquiries, please contact us directly.
“Thankfully, the victim’s condition is stable. He remains in hospital and we continue to provide support to his family.”
A University of Surrey spokesperson added: “We have been informed that our colleague’s condition is now stable and our whole community is relieved to hear this news. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.”
“We would also like to take this opportunity to thank our campus security team. They responded to this incident with professionalism and courage, and their commitment to keeping this community safe is a source of deep pride for us. Our thoughts are with them all.”
