A security guard in his fifties has been rushed to hospital after being shot with a crossbow at the University of Surrey.

A former student, 21, from Saudi Arabia, has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in police custody. 

Emergency services were called to reports of someone having been shot with the weapon at Manor Park Student Village in Guildford at 10am this morning, Surrey Police said.

The victim, a member of the university’s campus safety team, is said to be in a ‘serious’ condition in hospital and a ‘significant’ emergency presence remains at the scene.

Their family is being supported by specialist officers, the force said. 

Detectives are appealing for any witnesses to contact police. 

The university’s campus safety team carries out regular patrols of the Manor Park campus to keep students and staff safe, according to its website. 

Chief Superintendent 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 underway to establish the circumstances of the assault.’

He continued: ‘The victim remains in a serious condition in hospital and his next of kin are aware and are being supported by officers.’

A spokesperson for the University of Surrey said: ‘At approximately 9.50 am this morning, an incident took place on our Manor Park campus. 

‘Police attended and a man was arrested. A member of our campus safety team was seriously injured and is receiving medical care. 

‘The police are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident. Surrey Police are leading the investigation and we are giving them our full support.’

Witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact police quoting reference PR/45260065706, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.