Police hunt suspected crossbow killer after man murdered and woman attacked at their home

A manhunt is underway for a suspected crossbow killer after a man was murdered and a woman was attacked at their home.

Shane Gilmer, 30, has been named by police as the victim of the attack, which took place on Friday evening and reportedly involved a crossbow.

It took place in the village of Southburn near Driffield, which has been cordoned off while police search the area, including local woods.

Humberside Police has issued an appeal to find 55-year-old Anthony Lawrence in connection with the incident, and the force confirmed that officers had found his car abandoned.

Detective Chief Inspector Stewart Miller said: “We are able to confirm that the victim killed in the incident was 30-year-old Shane Gilmer. We are supporting Mr Gilmer’s family during this difficult and sad time.

“The investigation to find the person responsible is ongoing.”

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Police received reports at around 9.20pm on Friday that a couple had been seriously injured in a disturbance at their home.

Mr Gilmer died at Hull Royal Infirmary on Saturday, while the woman remains in a stable condition.

Chief Inspector Andy Parsons said: “We are still appealing for anyone who believes they have seen Mr Lawrence to call us immediately on 999.

“While we still believe this was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider public, please do not approach him yourself.”

Mr Lawrence is described as white, around 5ft 10in tall, with short dark hair and large build.

Neighbours described the woman as “pouring with blood” as she sought help from nearby residents after the attack at around 9.20pm on Friday.

Neighbour Chris King, 25, said: “The woman who was attacked ran inside the big farmhouse at around 9.20pm last night and she was pouring with blood.

“He’d used a crossbow and other weapons to attack the couple after breaking in to the property through their downstairs cellar.

“The lady had blood pouring down her face. It was terrifying. The woman was panicking and was scared.”

He added: “I never known a quieter village for something like this to happen in. It’s just like Midsomer Murders.”