Bushey killing: Tributes paid to three women killed in ‘senseless’ crossbow attack

Carol Hunt, 61, who was married to BBC 5 Live racing commentator John Hunt, and two of their daughters - Louise, 25, and Hannah, 28 - were found dead at their home in Hertfordshire.

Kyle Clifford, 26, the suspected killer, was detained on Wednesday night (July 10) in Lavender Hill Cemetery, close to his home in Enfield, north London, following a huge manhunt.

He is currently in hospital receiving medical treatment having been found with injuries. Hertfordshire Police says no shots were fired by police.

Louise Hunt is understood to have recently broken up with the murder suspect.

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A vigil was held on Thursday morning (July 11) to commemorate the three women who were killed, hosted by the Rector of Bushey.

Colleagues of Hannah Hunt, who worked as a beautician, paid tribute to the “fantastic therapist”. In a post on Facebook, the Anti-Ageing Clinic, based in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said it was with “deep regret and sadness” that they learned of the “horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah”.

They said: “She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. We send our condolences and prayers to her dad, sister and family. She was very much a part of our team. Please bear with us at this terrible time.”

In a post to Facebook, a spokesperson for the Parish of Bushey said: "It is with deep sadness that the people of Bushey mourn the tragic loss of three members of our community.

"This has made the national news and attention will be focused on where we live. Both the Parish Church of St James on the High Street of Bushey and St Pauls on Bushey Hall Road are open for people to offer prayers and light a candle for those who have died, the family of the victims and those helping with this terrible crime.

"We also remember the perpetrator who committed this act, that he may come forward to the police.

"Rest Eternal Grant To Them Oh Lord, And Light Perpetual Shine Upon Them. Amen."

Writing on Hannah’s social media, Natalie Parks wrote: “Fly high beautiful girls. 

“What an absolute senseless tragedy this is. I really hope justice prevails and your family and friends find some comfort from it when it does.

“Thinking of all your family and friends at this horrific time.”

Posting on Louise’s social media, Darren Grear wrote: “After reading what’s happened to you, your family and your poor father today, I just can’t stop thinking about the horrific tragedy you have all suffered. I’m truly sorry to have read what’s happened and my thoughts are with your father and loved ones. RIP Louise.”

Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit said: “This continues to be an incredibly difficult time for the victims’ family and we would ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with what has happened.

“This investigation is moving at pace and formal identification of the victims is yet to take place. The premature naming of potential victims has caused great upset to the family when they should’ve been given the space to come to terms with their sudden loss.

“Following extensive enquiries, the suspect has been located and nobody else is being sought in connection with the investigation at this time.”

The Home Secretary is urgently considering whether tougher crossbow laws are needed in the wake of the killings. Yvette Cooper will look at the findings of a Home Office review carried out earlier this year.

A Home Office spokeswoman said: “We keep legislation under constant review and a call for evidence was launched earlier this year to look at whether further controls on crossbows should be introduced. The Home Secretary will swiftly consider the findings to see if laws need to be tightened further.”