Full timeline of Kyle Clifford manhunt after triple crossbow murder shocks nation

Armed police at Lavender Hill Cemetery near the home of Triple murder suspect Kyle Clifford
-Credit: (Image: The Daily Mirror)


A huge manhunt was launched after a woman and her two daughters were killed in a horrific crossbow attack. Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC commentator John Hunt, and two of their three daughters - Louise, 25, and Hannah, 28 - were found severely injured inside a home in Hertfordshire.

Tragically, they all died of their wounds on Tuesday, July 9. Police quickly established Kyle Clifford, 26, as the prime suspect in the case and officers launched a major operation to locate him.

Kyle is the ex-partner of one of the victims. He was found injured but alive yesterday (Wednesday, July 10).

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Here is everything we know so far.

Undated handout photo issued by Hertfordshire Police of Kyle Clifford, 26, who is wanted in connection with the murders of three women in Bushey
Kyle Clifford -Credit:Hertfordshire Police

Timeline of manhunt:

  • Police officers were called to Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire, just before 7pm on Tuesday, after a neighbour reported hearing screaming

  • The three women were found seriously injured and died at the scene despite the efforts of paramedics

  • Armed police searched a home in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, on Wednesday at around 8am

  • Police confirmed the killings were "targeted" and warned the public not to approach Mr Clifford, saying that he may be in the possession of a crossbow

  • Police helicopters and armed officers were deployed on Wednesday to find the suspect

  • Hertfordshire Police issued a statement just before 6.30pm on Wednesday announcing officers had found and apprehended Clifford in Enfield

  • The force said he was receiving treatment after being found with injuries

Who are the victims?

Carol Hunt, 61, and her two daughters Louise, 25, and Hannah, 28. The victims are the wife and children of BBC racing commentator, John Hunt. The couple are believed to have a third daughter, Amy, who reportedly lives in Birmingham.

Where did the attack happen?

All three victims died inside a home on Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire at around 7pm on Tuesday, July 9

Where was Kyle Clifford found?

On the afternoon of Wednesday, July 10, armed officers and ambulance staff were seen at a cemetery close to where a house was searched in Enfield. The cemetery was closed off and an air ambulance was seen nearby.

Hertfordshire Police later said that Kyle Clifford had been apprehended "with no shots fired" by police. He is receiving medical treatment after being found with injuries.

Who is Kyle Clifford?

It is believed that Kyle Clifford left the British Army after a short period of service in 2022. Police are treating the killings as a "targeted incident", and said they believe the suspect was known to the victims as he was reportedly one of the daughter's ex-boyfriend.

Hertfordshire Police said shortly after apprehending Clifford that he was found with injuries and is receiving treatment. Kyles's brother, Bradley Clifford, is currently serving a life sentence for murdering a teen moped driver.

What have the police said?

Det Insp Justine Jenkins, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit said this is an "incredibly difficult time for the victims' family". She said: "We would ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with what has happened."

She said the investigation "is moving at pace" and police have yet to formally identify the victims. "Following extensive inquiries, the suspect has been located and nobody else is being sought in connection with the investigation at this time," she added.

What has the BBC said?

A spokesperson for the BBC said: "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."

Racing broadcasters have also been offering their condolences. One of them, Matt Chapman, posted on X, saying it was "impossible to comprehend the pain". He added: "Just know we are all here for you, John. We love you pal - racing loves you."