Heartbroken Community Holds Vigil for BBC Star John Hunt’s Wife and Daughters After Tragic Crossbow Attack

Loved ones have paid tribute to John Hunt’s wife and two daughters following their deaths in an alleged crossbow attack.

In a sad display of respect, scores of colourful flowers were laid for Carol Hunt, 61, and her daughters Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, after they were reportedly killed by an ex-soldier in Hertfordshire on Tuesday.

Tributes adorn the cul-de-sac in Bushey where the tragedy occurred, and heartbroken family and friends gathered for a vigil at St James’ Church this morning.

Members of the congregation attending a morning service and vigil at St James’s church in Bushey following the deathsCredit: PA

The suspect, 26-year-old Kyle Clifford, is currently hospitalized after sustaining injuries during Wednesday’s manhunt.

Hannah and Louise were the daughters of BBC 5 Live racing commentator John Hunt. The horrific incident occurred just after 7 PM on Tuesday.

Carol Hunt, one of the victims of the ‘crossbow killings’, pictured with BBC star husband John

A heartfelt note on a floral tribute left by a Bushey resident reads, “For the three beautiful souls who left us too early. Wishing your onward journey to be peaceful and full of life. To family and friends: I wish you all the strength in the world to come to terms with your tragic loss.”

Another message simply read, “Rest in peace, Carol, Hannah, and Louise.”

Close family friend Lea Holloway speaks to the media after leaving a morning service and vigil held at St James’s church in Bushey following the deaths of Carol Hunt Credit: PA.

Residents remain in shock, with an extensive police cordon still in place. A childhood friend of Carol, Lea Holloway, 60, described her as a “beautiful person” and recounted their long friendship. “We grew up together and were pregnant at the same time. This is the stuff nightmares are made of. She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet,” she shared.

Neighbor Su Kehinde added, “They were the loveliest, gentlest family. They did not deserve this. They were beautiful souls.”

Kyle Clifford was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, North London, on Wednesday and taken to a major trauma centre. Police reported that no shots had been fired by officers, and no arrests had been made at the time.

Footage from Sky News showed Clifford being stretchered out of the cemetery by paramedics. Armed police and an air ambulance were present in the area.

Neighbours recalled hearing screams on Tuesday night as the “traumatic” incident unfolded. Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson of Hertfordshire Police stated in a press conference that the killings appeared to be “targeted.”

Floral tributes are laid at the scene after the three women died. Credit: Ray Collins.

During the hunt for Clifford, who left the Army in 2022 after a brief stint, police warned the public he might be armed with a crossbow and should not be approached. Clifford was believed to be known to the victims.

A vigil held at St James’ Church, Bushey, in memory of Carol and her two daughters Credit: Ray Collins

Radio 5 Live presenter Mark Chapman delivered an emotional tribute at the start of the Euro 2024 pre-match show. “This has been a heart-breaking day. John Hunt is our colleague and our friend, and our love and thoughts are with John and his family,” he said through tears.

Hannah Hunt, a daughter of the pair, also died in Bushey.

In response to the tragedy, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is urgently considering whether stricter crossbow laws are needed. A Home Office spokeswoman confirmed, “We keep legislation under constant review, and a call for evidence was launched earlier this year to examine whether further crossbow controls should be introduced.

Louise Hunt was also named as a victim following the incident

A vigil was held at St James’ Church, Bushey, in memory of the victims this morning. Credit: Ray Collins

There had been a national manhunt for the suspect

The Home Secretary will swiftly consider the findings to see if laws need further tightening.”

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This rewrite emphasizes clear, detailed information and a respectful tone, focusing on the emotional impact and key details of the event for better readability and engagement.

Sola Adeniji

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