Guildford Shocked by University Crossbow Attack as Charges Filed
Shockwaves Through Guildford’s Student Hub
Guildford is a town accustomed to a peaceful rhythm. On any given weekday, the most disruption local residents expect is the occasional rumble of a domestic loft conversion or a home renovation down the road. However, that tranquility was shattered on Thursday morning when police descended on the University of Surrey’s Manor Park Student Village. This usually vibrant residential hub, which houses thousands of students and sits adjacent to the Surrey Sports Park, became the center of a major police investigation following a shocking crossbow attack. Officers were called to the scene at around 10:00 am, discovering a campus safety officer in his 50s who had been shot with a crossbow. The suspect, identified as 21-year-old former student Almunthir Daqamah, has since been arrested and charged with attempted murder, possession of an offensive weapon, two counts of holding a bladed article, and possession of Class B drugs. For Guildford residents, seeing such high-level emergency activity in a familiar student neighbourhood has caused understandable concern. Manor Park is not just a campus facility; it is an integral part of our local landscape, heavily integrated into the wider west Guildford community.
Local Heroes and the Campus Response
At the heart of this distressing incident is the campus safety team, whose members are familiar, reassuring faces to both students and local residents. The victim, a dedicated safety officer, remains in a stable condition in the hospital. The University of Surrey community has rallied around him and his family, expressing profound relief at the news of his stabilization. A university spokesperson praised the campus safety team for responding with immense professionalism and courage under pressure. In Guildford, our sense of safety relies heavily on these local guardians who work behind the scenes. Whether we are busy with our daily lives, commuting, or overseeing a loft refurbishment project at home, we trust that our public spaces are secure. Chief Superintendent Jon Groenen sought to reassure the public, stating that there is no indication the attack was terror-related, nor are police looking for any other suspects. The solidarity shown by both the student body and Guildford residents highlights the strength of our local community when faced with unexpected crises.
What Happens Next and How Residents Can Help
As the legal process begins, Almunthir Daqamah is scheduled to appear at Guildford Magistrates’ Court. Local authorities are urging the public to refrain from speculating on social media to ensure the integrity of the upcoming judicial proceedings is maintained. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance. Residents who may have witnessed anything unusual around the Manor Park area on Thursday morning are urged to contact Surrey Police immediately. You can reach out via their 24/7 live chat, fill out an online form, or call the non-emergency 101 number. For those who wish to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers is always available. Moving forward, the university and local police will continue to collaborate closely to review security measures on campus. While the physical scars of the incident will take time to heal, the quick response of emergency services and the resilience of Guildford’s community ensure that our neighbourhood remains a safe place to live, study, and work.
Source: Police name man charged with Uni of Surrey crossbow attack
