Police have issued a major update after tracking down crossbow murder suspect Kyle Clifford in a dramatic manhunt.
Bushey triple murder suspect Clifford is in a “serious condition” in hospital and has yet to speak with officers, Hertfordshire Police said, adding the force has recovered a crossbow. The 26-year-old was found injured in a North London cemetery following a massive search across areas of Hertfordshire and north London.
Carol Hunt, 61, Hannah Hunt, 28, and Louise Hunt, 25, are thought to have been discovered with fatal injuries by husband and father John - who works for BBC Five Live racing - when he returned to the family home in Bushey on Tuesday evening. Despite the efforts of emergency services the women all died at the scene.
The police hunt for suspect Clifford - who had previously been in a relationship with Louise - is from the Enfield area in north London. Officers were seen swarming allotments with an ambulance seen at a nearby cemetery in Enfield yesterday afternoon, before confirming he had been found.
Emergency services said he was taken to a major trauma centre for injuries, although no shots were fired by police.
Det Supt Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. We are wholly committed to seeking justice for the victims and their family."
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Detectives determined to understand what led to murders as investigation continues
As the investigation continues, police have said they are determined to understand what led to the murders of Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt at their home in Bushey.
Officers have confirmed that they had no previous contact with Kyle Clifford or the three murder victims.
Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it.
“This investigation, as I’m sure people can imagine, will take time. I’d like to reiterate my sincere thanks to the members of public who contacted us yesterday and helped with our inquiries.”
Victim sent ominous message about 'breakup' before her murder
A friend of Louise and Hannah Hunt has revealed ominous messages about a "breakup" just weeks before the sisters were murdered alongside their mother.
The ex-colleague, who did not want to be named, came and laid flowers later in the day on Thursday. She said: “I worked with Hannah in a spa a few years ago because she was mobile. They would all come for a massage, I would massage them all and they were the loveliest family.
“[Louise] messaged me two weeks ago saying she was going through a sh*** breakup. But you just think it’s a regular breakup, it’s sad,” she explained.
“I text Hannah yesterday morning to ask if she was okay because I saw their road on the news but you don’t think it would be them. I just thought I should go to work or else I’ll be sat watching the TV all day,” she said.
Hannah Hunt's boyfriend posts heartbreaking photo
Alex Klein, boyfriend of victim Hannah Hunt, 28, posted a heartbreaking photo of the loved-up pair, as he called Hannah "my brave queen" and "the brightest light in my life" in his harrowing tribute on social media.
A caption on the image reads: "RIP the love of my life, I will never forget you, stolen from me too soon. The brightest light in my life. My brave queen for life. Until we meet again... I love you Hansy".
Louise Hunt's incredible show of courage amid 'split' from Clifford
Louise Hunt, 25, a hard-working dog groomer, remembered for her kindness, reportedly spent the final weeks of her life dealing with a difficult break-up - and showed admirable strength and courage as she attempted to move forward.
It's believed Louise had been involved in a relationship with Kyle Clifford - the only suspect in the triple murder case that has shocked the country.
Speaking with the Mail Online, neighbour Glyn Nicholas claimed that Louise had been left so distraught in the aftermath of a recent break-up that she crashed her car in the week leading up to her tragic death.
Glyn, 77, said: "Louise was a very nice girl. She ran a dog grooming business from the house. I heard that she split from a boyfriend last week and was very upset about it. So much so that she was driving home at some point last week and drove into a wooden telegraph pole not far from the house.
"Another dog groomer - who is a friend of Louise's - told me that her car door had caved in because of the crash."
Worried mum Carol reportedly recently opened up to one of her gym friends about her youngest daughter's 'messy' break-up. One pal told the publication: "She said her daughter's split with her boyfriend was messy. Carol did not go into too much detail, but you could see she was concerned."
Police 'still seeking information'
Police have said they are still seeking information that may relate to the investigation after Clifford was found injured in an Enfield graveyard on Wednesday evening.
Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “This investigation, as I’m sure people can imagine, will take time. I’d like to reiterate my sincere thanks to the members of public who contacted us yesterday and helped with our inquiries.
"We are still appealing for anyone with information in relation to the incident on Tuesday evening in Bushey and activity in Enfield yesterday that could assist us to please contact police directly.
“We have set up an information portal where people can submit any information, photos or video footage which they feel could assist us with our investigation. Local officers will remain in the area today so please do speak to them if you need to.”
Heartbreaking photos show tributes left at family home
Flowers and tributes have been left near the family home in Bushey after the community was left reeling by the news of the attack.
One heartbreaking message reads: "Heaven has received three beautiful angels".
Further details about Clifford's past emerge
Further details about Clifford's past has also emerged since he was announced as a suspect, including his employment as a security guard and British Army soldier.
In a short statement released earlier today, his former employer, Fire and security installation firm Amthal, said they have not been in contact with him since last year.
A spokesperson said: "Kyle Clifford was employed from February 22, 2023 to July 20, 2023. Since he departed from Amthal in July 2023, we have had no further communication with Mr Clifford."
Clifford also reportedly served as a trooper in the Queen's Dragoon Guards for a brief time, and is thought to have later pursued a career in the Household Calvary Regiment after passing out.
Boyfriend of Hannah Hunt pays tribute to 'brave queen'
The boyfriend of victim Hannah Hunt, 28, has paid tribute to the "love of my life".
Alex Klein paid a moving tribute to Hannah on Thursday after Hannah was murdered alongside sister Louise, 26, and mum Carol, 61, at home in the town on Tuesday. The grief-stricken partner called her "my brave queen" and "the brightest light in my life" in his harrowing words on social media.
Mr Klein also shared a sweet image of himself with Hannah, who he referred to as "the love of my life".
Victims made 'desperate attempt to save themselves'
The women who died in a horrifying triple murder made a final desperate attempt to save their family, it has been claimed.
The Guardian reports that one of the women called 999 and alerted officers to the attack before the perpetrator fled the scene. The publication has also reported that one of the victims texted her partner, urging them to call the police.
Crossbow legislation to be reviewed
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed the government will look into crossbow legislation in the UK, as previously suggested by Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Speaking to the BBC, Starmer also sent his thoughts and condolences to the Hunt family, following the tragic murders of Carol, 61, Hannah, 28, and Louise Hunt, 25.
Meanwhile, Labour's new MP for Watford, Matthew Turmaine says he has written to Cooper requesting for crossbow laws to be reviewed in the wake of the attacks. He said: "They're doing that as a matter of urgency. This will be the top of the inbox."
"I do think we will hear more about this very soon as this is an urgent priority."
Prime Minister sends condolences to Hunt family
Speaking about the murders, Kier Starmer has said: "First let me say how awful this incident was, and our thoughts and condolences are obviously with the family members, and all of the family affected. It is awful.
"In relation to crossbows, the Home Secretary has announced that she will look at the legislation, and we will, because there's no getting away from how awful this incident was."
Bushey local says Hunt family were 'so kind'
Bushey resident, Betty, 91, has spoken to the BBC about how the Hunt family were "so kind" to her and offered to help her with her shopping during the pandemic. She recalled how the family asked if she needed help two or three times, adding: “It was so kind,” she said, adding they didn’t have to do that. “I was very impressed with that.”
Police remove computer hard drives from address linked to Clifford’s brother
Five search officers have removed two computer hard drives and two large document bags from an address linked to Kyle Clifford’s brother.
Police remain outside the house on Rendlesham Road, Enfield.
Crossbow recovered by officers
Hertfordshire Police confirmed the force has recovered a crossbow, after revealing Bushey triple murder suspect Kyle Clifford is in a “serious condition” in hospital and has yet to speak with officers.
Police say 'this was an unprecedented attack'
Det Supt Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, says the attack was "unprecedented" and warned the investigation "will take time".
He said: “This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. We are wholly committed to seeking justice for the victims and their family.
"Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family and loved ones at this devastating and indescribable time."
Murder suspect Kyle Clifford's royal connection
Kyle Clifford served in a similar regiment to Prince Harry and Prince William during his brief time in the military.
Clifford reportedly served in the Dragoon Guards after joining the British Army in 2019 and later moved on to the Household cavalry. The latter regiment once counted Princes William and Harry among its members, with the older of the two joining after he finished training in 2006. William received the rank of second lieutenant before leaving in 2008.
Prince Harry joined the same year and became a lieutenant during his time with the unit. The two brothers served with the cavalry's Blues & Royals during their time in service. The unit has one other regiment, the Life Guards, but it is unclear which one Clifford joined when he enlisted in 2019.
Read more here.
Kyle Clifford in 'serious condition'
A major update has been issued on the condition of triple crossbow murder suspect Kyle Clifford.
Clifford is in a “serious condition” in hospital and has yet to speak with officers, Hertfordshire Police said, adding the force has recovered a crossbow.
John Hunt would 'often talk about wife and daughters'
Tributes have continued to pour in for Carol, Louise and Hannah Hunt from colleagues of John Hunt.
ITV Racing presenter Ed Chamberlin said Hunt is being kept "in our thoughts" during the July Festival at Newmarket, while fellow racing commentator Richard Hoiles said Hunt would often talk about his wife and daughters, the BBC has reported. Hoiles recalled how at an "annual shindig at Christmas 20 odd years ago", he proudly showed photos of his daughters to pubgoers.
He added: “We all felt we knew Carol and the girls, possibly far better than we actually did."
Police issue major update on crossbow murder suspect Kyle Clifford
The force said Clifford is currently in a serious condition and is yet to speak with officers. A crossbow has also been recovered as part of the investigation. Hertfordshire Police also said there was no previous reports to the force over Clifford.
Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: “Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family and loved ones at this devastating and indescribable time. They are being supported by specially trained officers.
“This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. We are wholly committed to seeking justice for the victims and their family.
“This investigation, as I’m sure people can imagine, will take time. I’d like to reiterate my sincere thanks to the members of public who contacted us yesterday and helped with our inquiries. We are still appealing for anyone with information in relation to the incident on Tuesday evening in Bushey and activity in Enfield yesterday that could assist us to please contact police directly.
“We have set up an information portal where people can submit any information, photos or video footage which they feel could assist us with our investigation. Local officers will remain in the area today so please do speak to them if you need to.”
Read more here Police issue major update on crossbow murder suspect Kyle Clifford
Refuge issue a statement about Carol, Hannah and Louise
Commenting on the killings of Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt in Bushey, Hertfordshire, Abigail Ampofo, Interim CEO at Refuge said: “Refuge’s thoughts are with Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt and their family and friends following the devastating incident in Bushey.
The news emerging yesterday evening that the suspected killer was known as an ex-partner of Louise has now made it clear that this is a targeted domestic homicide.
It will be shocking to many that there is no registration or licence system for owning crossbows and it is right that the Government is considering if crossbow laws need to be tightened. Whilst we would support an outright ban on dangerous weapons like crossbows, we also need to be clear that the danger from crimes like this is from the perpetrator not the tools used to enact their violence. Sadly, we know in cases of domestic homicide perpetrators will use anything at their disposal as a weapon. The focus needs to be on tackling violence against women and girls more widely and addressing misogynistic culture that is the root cause.
A woman is killed by a partner or ex-partner every five days most commonly in their own home, we remind media reporting on this case to do so sensitively and for anyone experiencing domestic abuse Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available on 0808 2000 247.”
Dramatic moment Kyle Clifford is caught in cemetery
Kyle Clifford's dramatic capture was caught on camera hours after police launched a comprehensive manhunt to track him down.
A new video shows the moment Hertfordshire Constabulary tracked Clifford, 26, to an Enfield graveyard near where police were investigating the deaths of Carol Hunt, 61, Hannah Hunt, 28 and Louise Hunt, 25, were tragically murdered at their Hertfordshire home.
Investigators identified Clifford as a suspect and after a several-hour-long manhunt on Wednesday, tracked him to the Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield. Armed officers rounded on the location, with the new footage showing them walking alongside paramedics before he was carted to a trauma centre for treatment.
New tributes placed in Bushey as community continues to mourn
More tributes have come in from loved ones to pay respects to Carol, Louise and Hannah Hunt this evening.
They wrote: "Louise, Carol and Hannah:
"I’m sorry this has happened. None of you deserved this horrific crime. Wonderfully kind and loving people - you’ll be missed. Rest in peace."
Police update on Bushey investigation expected this afternoon
Police are expected to provide an update on the killings of Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt this afternoon.
Hertfordshire Constabulary said it would update the public this morning, but this is now expected to take place later today instead.
Tributes from the victims' community
Tributes are still flooding in from loved ones and neighbours to the family.
One wrote: “Rest in peace Louise, I’ll miss you dearly, sweet dreams.” Another wrote: “Our love and thoughts are with you, Louise and your family. A compassionate and kind girl with so much.”
One card said: “The strongest women to ever exist, you’ll always be remembered. I wish I could continue doing life with you Louise, my beautiful girlie, I’ll miss you.”
A friend wrote: “Hannah, Louise, and Carol: I wish none of this was real. I wish I could hug you all, tell you much you meant to me.”
Another loved one also wrote: “Heaven has received three beautiful angels. May the Lord be with you and keep you in every lasting peace, God bless.
A neighbour who heart the news wrote: “we didn’t know you, but you did not deserve this. Rest in peace.”
House being searched by police in north London connected to Kyle Clifford's jailed brother
The house in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, being searched by police today is connected to Kyle Clifford's brother.
Bradley Clifford, 30, was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for murder in 2018. He received the sentence at the Old Bailey after he ran down two teenagers driving a moped, killing one and attacking the other, who was flung into the road, during an "intense rage".
Pictures show emotional scenes at Bushey vigil
New pictures have captured a congregation in Bushey during a vigil held for the Hunt family earlier this afternoon.
The Reverend David Stevenson, the Rector of Bushey, held a vigil at St James's Church, where he said the community has come together as "one big family". Photographs from inside the church show the congregation hugging and crying with one another as they remembered the three women, who died on Tuesday.
Friend of Carol Hunt remembers 'really lovely' girls
A close friend of Carol, Lea Holloway said she and her daughters were "really lovely".
Speaking to the Mirror, she said: "We went on a youth opportunity scheme together when we were young and kept in touch ever since.
"We were both pregnant at the first time which was lovely, it was my third child and Carol’s second daughter, Hannah. I was with them when Carol and John met, we were out together in a nightclub in Hemsford somewhere.
"Carol and I used to have this running joke that John had asked me for a dance and I said no then he moved to Carol. They were together a long time before they got married.
"They’re a lovely family, I miss Carol like crazy because there was the four of us as friends and now this has happened. Carol was a lovely sweet like girl, very family orientated. I can’t believe that’s happened, and her girls were really lovely girls.
"I know that Hannah was a good beautician. It’s been very difficult hearing everything. I went to Carol's 60th, we had a great time when we were together. It’s a thing nightmares are made of."
'Taken too soon'
Lea Holloway, a friend of Carol Hunt, said she feels for the husband and elder daughter of the Bushey crossbow attack victim.
Speaking outside St James’ Church on Thursday, she said: “They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls.
“They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. It’s the thing of nightmares. I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I can’t imagine what it would be like.”
Clifford's short-lived military career revealed
Clifford is believed to have formerly worked as a private security guard. Before that he was in the Army where he was a trooper and served in the Queen's Dragoon Guards.
It is later said he pursued a different career in the Household Calvary Regiment after passing out. Clifford’s former boss told The Sun: "Clifford joined the Army in 2019 and I was his Troop Commander from Basic Training. He struggled to grasp basic military concepts but managed to reach the standard to pass out from training.
"After passing out he joined the Household Cavalry Regiment but I'm unsure how his career developed from there. I hear he was working in private security so that would indicate that he is no longer in the military."
Former school of Bushey victims pays tribute to Hunt family
Loreto College in St Albans, Hertfordshire, where Louise and Hannah went to school, has said it is mourning the loss of its former students.
The school said in a post on its X account: "We extend our thoughts & prayers to the family during this most difficult time. As a Loreto Community, they will always hold a place in our heart. May they rest in peace."