Bushey, England – A local community is enveloping BBC horse racing commentator John Hunt with support as the devastating loss of his wife and two daughters reverberates throughout Bushey, Hertfordshire. The women tragically fell victim to a deadly attack involving a crossbow at their family home on Tuesday evening, a crime described by police as “targeted.”
Authorities disclosed that John Hunt’s spouse, Carol, 61, and their daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were discovered with fatal injuries. The ongoing investigation led to the apprehension of Kyle Clifford, the former boyfriend of Louise and primary suspect in this grim case.
The suspect was captured on Wednesday after a 22-hour manhunt, located in a cemetery in north London. Despite his injuries from apparently turning the weapon on himself, Clifford remains under police surveillance in a hospital in East London. Officers have confirmed that the manhunt has concluded and no other individuals are being sought in relation to this incident.
A poignant vigil was held at a nearby church where community members and friends of the Hunt family gathered, many too moved to speak and visibly shaken. The church service provided a somber space for reflection and mourning, as attendees tried to comfort one another through their grief.
John Hunt, who was not at home at the time of the attack, is known for his work as a horse racing commentator for the BBC. His colleagues have rallied around him, describing the ordeal as an “utterly devastating” event. The sentiment extends beyond personal support, with racing venues across the country holding moments of silence and jockeys donning black armbands in solidarity.
Neighbor Sue Kehinde recounted the Hunt family as exceptionally kind and gentle, sentiments echoed by others who knew them well. Initial reports from the scene suggested a horrifying act, with evidence indicating the women might have been restrained and attacked with not just a crossbow but potentially other weapons as well.
The violent incident, rare in this usually peaceful neighborhood, prompted an immediate response from law enforcement. After receiving reports of the attacks, police swiftly initiated a substantial investigative operation that led to several raids, including at properties connected to the suspect in Enfield.
Floral tributes and heartfelt messages have accumulated outside the Hunt family home, illustrating the depth of loss felt by the community. Educational institutions and local businesses where the women were known also expressed their condolences, highlighting their positive contributions to society and the lives they touched.
Hannah, remembered as a beloved skin therapist, and Louise, known for her dog grooming business, were both described by friends and patrons as caring and professional. Their sudden and tragic deaths have left many questioning the motivations behind such a brutal act, particularly focusing on Louise’s recent breakup with Clifford, which had occurred just a week prior to the incident.
Looking forward, the community is focused on healing and supporting one another, and particularly John Hunt, as they come to terms with this unimaginable tragedy. The ongoing police investigation continues to uncover details of the circumstance, but the lasting impact on Bushey and the broader racing community will no doubt be felt for years to come.