Credits: CNN
London, UK — A manhunt is underway in north London for a man suspected of being armed with a crossbow after three women — the wife and two daughters of a BBC journalist — were killed Tuesday evening.
Police are searching for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford in connection with the deaths. He is believed to be in the British capital or the neighboring county of Hertfordshire.
Officers were called to a house in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on Tuesday evening, where they discovered three seriously injured women who later succumbed to their wounds.
The victims have been identified as Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, and their two daughters, aged 25 and 28. Police have described the deaths as a “targeted incident.”
A crossbow is believed to have been used in the killings, though police mentioned that other weapons may also have been involved. The public has been advised not to approach the suspect.
‘Utterly Devastating’
The BBC released a statement describing the deaths as “utterly devastating.” The broadcaster expressed its condolences and support for John Hunt and his family, stating, “The news today about John Hunt’s family is utterly devastating. Our thoughts are with John and his family at this incredibly difficult time, and we will provide him with all the support we can.”
British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that she is being kept “fully updated” by police on the ongoing manhunt. “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.
“I urge people to support Hertfordshire Police with any information about this case,” she added.
A neighbor of the victims shared her shock with PA Media, saying, “I would see them every day passing by, and they would say good morning. It’s really sad what’s happened, very shocking.”