After the tragic crossbow murders of his wife and two daughters, racing commentator for the BBC, John Hunt, is grappling with the news that the suspect, Kyle Clifford (26), has been found. Clifford, believed to be acquainted with the victims, was located in north London’s Enfield area by Hertfordshire Police on Wednesday afternoon, having suffered injuries himself.
Clifford was sought in relation with the horrifying deaths of Carol Hunt and her two daughters, Hannah and Louise, in their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire. Hertfordshire police clarified that no shots were fired by them during the arrest.
The spokesperson for the Major Crime Unit of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire, Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, spoke on the ongoing investigation, urging respect for the victims’ family. She asserted that the investigation was advancing swiftly, though the victims haven’t been formally identified yet. She also confirmed that no other individuals are being pursued in relation to this case.
In an earlier press conference prior to locating Clifford, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson suggested that such heinous act was a planned assault. The police had warned citizens not to approach Clifford as they suspected he might be armed with a crossbow.
The BBC announced their intention to offer all necessary support to their staff member, John Hunt, during this time of anguish. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is being continuously kept informed about the investigative developments of what she termed as the “truly shocking” murders. A spokeswoman for the Home Office conveyed plans, sparked by these chilling events, for an official review into the regulations surrounding crossbow ownership.
Condolence messages are starting to surface on social media from individuals within the racing fraternity, expressing their grief over this horrifying incident.
BBC’s horse racing correspondent, Cornelius Lysaght, commented: “Words fail me.
“Like everyone else, I’m in a state of shock and outrage for what John is going through, such impenetrable wickedness is hard to comprehend.
“All who are acquainted with John understand that he represents the epitome of a family-oriented man, his pride for his family is limitless, hence, it is impossible to fathom his current suffering.
“What I can attest to, on behalf of the entire racing fraternity and the wider sports journalism community, which he has belonged to for years, is that heartfelt condolences, love, and support are being extended to him. It’s just unthinkable.” – PA”