A former British soldier, Kyle Clifford, 26, has received a whole-life sentence for the brutal murders of his ex-girlfriend Louise Hunt, her sister Hannah, and their mother, Carol, at their home in Bushey, north of London. On July 9, 2024, Clifford murdered Louise, 25, and Hannah, 28, using a crossbow, while killing 61-year-old Carol with a knife. He also faced charges of false imprisonment and possession of offensive weapons.
Clifford, who had a history of jealousy and contempt towards women, carried out the attack after Louise ended their 18-month relationship. Prosecutors revealed that he meticulously prepared for this act of violence, purchasing weapons and planning his approach for several days. He deceived Carol by claiming to return some of Louise’s belongings to gain access to their home. Once inside, he lay in wait for Louise, restraining and raping her before committing the murders.
The vicious attack resulted in the death of Hannah when she returned home from work unexpectedly. Evidence presented at the trial indicated that Clifford had drawn inspiration from misogynistic ideologies, particularly from the influencer Andrew Tate, whose violent views purportedly incited his actions.
After the murders, Clifford attempted to take his own life by shooting himself in the chest with the crossbow and was later found in a cemetery in Enfield, north London. He sustained paralysis from the chest down as a consequence of his injury.
During his sentencing, Justice Joel Bennathan described Clifford as a “jealous man soaked in self-pity.” He refused to attend the court proceedings. Among those present was John Hunt, the victims’ father and a BBC horse racing commentator, who expressed profound grief and called for women to derive strength from Louise’s courage in leaving Clifford. John condemned Clifford, labelling him a psychopath who masqueraded as an ordinary individual.
In his emotional address, John urged those in similar situations to recognise when they’ve had enough and to prioritise their safety. He emphasised the importance of standing against abuse, conveying his hope that such tragedies would inspire change.
Clifford’s sentencing follows a harrowing case that has deeply affected the community and highlighted issues surrounding domestic violence and misogyny. His actions and subsequent punishment serve as a grim reminder of the devastating impact of such crimes on families and society at large.