Man Found in North London After BBC Commentator’s Family Tragedy: ‘Utterly Devastating’
A man wanted in connection with the killings of the wife and two daughters of BBC commentator John Hunt has been found in North London, police confirmed.
Herts Police issued a statement: “Following an extensive search, Kyle Clifford, aged 26, was found in the Enfield area by officers this afternoon. He is receiving medical treatment having been found with injuries. No shots were fired by police.”
It is believed the suspect was known to the victims.
“Following extensive inquiries, the suspect has been located and nobody else is being sought in connection with the investigation at this time,” said Det Insp Justine Jenkins, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit.
The tragic incident occurred last night in Bushey, Hertfordshire, when police were called around 7 p.m. GMT to Hunt’s home. Police informed reporters that the three women were allegedly killed in a crossbow attack by Kyle Clifford, the ex-boyfriend of one of the victims. The deceased are Hunt’s wife, Carol Hunt, and two of their daughters. The couple has a third daughter.
Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson stated that upon arrival, three women were found with serious injuries. “Sadly, despite our best efforts, the women died a short time later, at the scene,” he said. “Our overarching objective today is to protect the public and locate Kyle Clifford, who is wanted in connection with the murder of the three women in what we believe is a targeted incident.”
Armed police and specialist search teams were mobilized “at pace,” Simpson added, urging the public not to approach Clifford but to dial 999. He also made a direct appeal to Clifford to contact the authorities.
John Hunt is a BBC horseracing commentator who has worked for BBC Radio 5 Live for many years.
In a note to staff reported by BBC News, BBC Radio Controller Heidi Dawson 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.”
Fellow racing commentator Matt Chapman posted on X: “No words needed for what has happened to Hunt and family today. Impossible to comprehend the pain.” Another racing commentator, Mike Vince, added that Hunt “is, and always will be one of the best broadcasting professionals I have ever had the honour of working with.”
As the community and colleagues reel from this tragedy, the focus remains on supporting John Hunt and his remaining family members during this incredibly challenging time.