British police are on the hunt for a suspect believed to be armed with a crossbow after three women were killed in a “targeted” attack in Bushey, near Watford, north of London. The incident occurred on Tuesday night, prompting an urgent search for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford from north London, who is wanted in connection with the deaths.
Police called to the scene
Hertfordshire Police reported that officers were summoned to a house in Bushey where they found the three women, aged 25, 28, and 61, dead at the scene. Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson stated that armed officers and specialist search teams are actively involved in the manhunt. He urged Clifford to contact the police and cautioned the public against approaching him.
Details of the incident
Simpson described the event as “a horrific incident involving what is currently believed to be a crossbow, but other weapons may also have been used.” Interior Minister Yvette Cooper called the deaths “truly shocking” and said she is being kept updated on the investigation.
A neighbor described the victims as a friendly family, saying, “We would see them every day passing by and they would say good morning. It’s really sad what’s happened, very shocking.”
Crossbow regulations in the UK
In the UK, owning a crossbow does not require a license, but it is illegal to carry one in public without a reasonable excuse. This incident is part of a troubling trend of crossbow-related violence in the country.
In March, a 47-year-old man was arrested after injuring two people in separate crossbow attacks in London’s Shoreditch area. Police discovered a crossbow, knives, and other weapons during a search of the suspect’s home.
One of the most notable crossbow incidents involved Jaswant Singh Chail, who was jailed last year after admitting to attempting to kill the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2021. Chail entered the grounds of Windsor Castle armed with a fully loaded crossbow.
Ongoing investigation
As the search for Kyle Clifford continues, British police are working tirelessly to ensure public safety and bring the suspect to justice. The community remains on edge as authorities pursue all leads in this tragic case.