Tributes pour in to wife and daughters of BBC star John Hunt after crossbow killings
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Heartfelt messages were shared in memory of a mother and her two daughters who tragically lost their lives in a crossbow incident in Hertfordshire. Those who knew them, including friends, neighbors, and coworkers, spoke fondly of the family, describing them as kind and gentle.
Surprised neighbors placed bouquets of flowers at the spot on Ashlyn Close, expressing their shock and sadness. They remembered the wife and daughters of BBC racing commentator John Hunt as a lovely and kind family, with rumors of a third daughter also in the mix.
Carol Hunt, aged 61, and her daughters Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were found dead with serious injuries at their residence in Bushey on Tuesday. The suspect, 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, was located by authorities at Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield the next evening after a thorough search.
Investigators have not yet interviewed Clifford, who is still in critical condition in the hospital. However, they have found a crossbow.
Hertfordshire Police stated that they had not been informed of any previous incidents, even after checking to see if there had been any prior interactions between Clifford, the victims, or Louise, who was revealed to be the suspect's former partner.
While at the Nato summit in Washington DC, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed his sorrow over the tragic incident in a statement to the BBC. He extended his condolences and thoughts to all the families affected by the terrible event.
The home secretary has said she will review the laws regarding crossbows.
On Thursday, additional searches were conducted at a residence associated with Clifford's sibling, Bradley Clifford, who received a life sentence with a minimum of 23 years for the killing of moped rider Soban Khan in 2018.
Based on information from the city police, Bradley Clifford deliberately focused on the moped before intentionally crashing into it, then proceeded to attack Mr. Khan even after the crash occurred.
Police were spotted at the location on Rendlesham Road in Enfield, investigating the fatalities.
A message left at the location said: "Hannah, Louise and Carol, I don't want to believe this is happening. I wish I could embrace all of you tightly, and express how much you all meant to me. I wish you could hug each other too. Will always cherish the memories with love."
Another message said: "I am so heartbroken that you have passed away. You were such a kind and wonderful family. You will always be cherished."
A close companion of Louise, who managed a business grooming dogs, described her as consistently upbeat and could not find any negative qualities to mention about her.
During a conversation with BBC News, he mentioned that he has known Louise since they were in school together. He described her as a really nice and kind person who always had a positive attitude. He couldn't think of anything negative to say about her, emphasizing that she was a wonderful person in every way and a very dedicated individual.
Luisa, another friend of Louise, shared that she would frequently send her photos of her dog asleep while getting groomed from her dog grooming business. She mentioned to Sky News, "This shows just how kind and calming Louise was."
Lea Holloway, who is 60 years old, mentioned to the media outside St James' Church after a candlelight vigil on Thursday that she has been friends with Carol since they were 16. She said, "We have known each other for a long time and even got pregnant at the same time. This situation feels like something out of a horror movie."
I remember the evening she first encountered John. It happened at a club in Hemel Hempstead. We hung out together, attended parties and special occasions. It's so hard to believe. She was the most pleasant, generous, and lovely individual you could ever come across. Such a wonderful person.
Mark Chapman, the presenter for BBC Radio 5 Live, became emotional and teary-eyed as he expressed his love and support for his colleague and friend at the beginning of the Euro 2024 pre-match show on Wednesday night.
"I am deeply saddened by today," he said to the audience. "John Hunt is not only a co-worker but also a close friend to all of us in the current 5 Live sport team. He has been a valued member of our team for the past two decades and his exceptional commentaries have been enjoyed by all of you as well."
"From all of us at 5 Live sport, we want to send our love, thoughts, and support to John and his family during this time."
"The BBC's racing expert Cornelius Lysaght said that he was at a loss for words after hearing about John's terrible situation. He, like many others, felt shocked and disgusted by the incomprehensible evil that had taken place."
Anyone familiar with John can attest to his unwavering dedication to his family. He takes great pride in them, making it difficult to imagine what challenges he may be facing.
"I am sure I am expressing the sentiments of all those in the racing and sports media communities who have known him for a long time. We are all sending our sympathy, love, and support to him. The situation is truly terrible."
Hannah Hunt's coworkers at the Anti-Aging Clinic in Radlett remembered the 28-year-old as an excellent therapist who was well-liked by clients.
In a recent Facebook update, the clinic staff expressed their deep sorrow and sadness over the tragic murder of their colleague, Hannah, on Tuesday night.
This therapist was amazing and clients adored her. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her father, sister, and family. She was an important member of our team. We ask for your patience during this difficult time.
Su Kehinde, a 60-year-old resident living nearby, placed flowers at a temporary memorial in the neighborhood on Wednesday. She expressed that the family was very kind and gentle, describing them as the most humble individuals. She believes they did not deserve what happened to them and considers them to be wonderful people.
April, who is 32 years old, mentioned that her mother, Hannah, was always cheerful and described her as a dedicated and kind person. She also stated that Hannah worked very hard in everything she did.
Glyn Nicholas, 77, has been neighbors with the victims for 50 years. He mentioned that the family was very reserved and kind. They were all involved in their own activities. Louise began a successful business a few years ago, where many neighbors would bring their dogs for grooming.
Further information gathered by PA
