In a harrowing incident that has sent shockwaves through the UK, three women, identified as the wife and two daughters of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, were brutally murdered in their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire. The suspect, Kyle Clifford, was apprehended following a manhunt that spanned across London.
The attack occurred on Tuesday evening when police were called to the Hunt residence. Upon arrival, they found Carol Hunt, 61, and her daughters Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, gravely injured. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, all three women succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Hertfordshire Police later confirmed that the killings were carried out using a crossbow, although other weapons may also have been involved.
"A man wanted in connection with a triple murder in Bushey has been traced to a location in North London," Hertfordshire Police said in a statement. "Following an extensive search, Kyle Clifford, aged 26, was found in the Enfield area by officers this afternoon."
The suspect, who had a brief stint in the British army, was found with injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment. Authorities believe that Clifford was known to the victims, suggesting the attack was premeditated.
John Hunt, a well-known figure in British broadcasting, received an outpouring of support from colleagues and the public. The BBC described the tragedy as "utterly devastating" and assured Hunt of their full support during this difficult time. "Our thoughts are with John and his family at this incredibly difficult time, and we will provide him with all the support we can," said Heidi Dawson, controller of BBC 5 Live.
The brutal nature of the killings and the use of a crossbow have left the local community in shock. A neighbor of the victims told PA Media, "It's really sad what's happened, very shocking. I would see them every day passing by and they would say good morning."
The attack has also prompted a reaction from British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who expressed her condolences and urged the public to assist police with any information. "The loss of three women's lives in Bushey last night is truly shocking. My thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have been killed and with the community," Cooper wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
During a press conference, Chief Superintendent John Simpson emphasized the severity of the incident, noting that armed police and specialist search teams had been mobilized to apprehend the suspect. "The manhunt also involves armed police officers and specialist search teams responding at pace in the wake of what has been a horrific incident," he said.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed Clifford's brief service in the armed forces, adding another layer of complexity to the case. As the investigation continues, authorities are piecing together the events that led to this tragic outcome.
Hannah Hunt, one of the deceased daughters, owned a beauty business called Hannah Grace Cosmetics, while her sister Louise launched a dog grooming business named Groom & Glow during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their promising futures were abruptly cut short by this senseless act of violence.
The community of Bushey, a typically quiet and affluent area, is grappling with the aftermath of the killings. "It is a decent neighborhood. It is mostly retired people and professionals living here," a neighbor commented, reflecting the general disbelief and sorrow permeating the area.
