John Hunt releases emotional statement after crossbow attack killed his wife and two daughters

BBC racing commentator John Hunt and his daughter Amy have released an emotional statement saying they are 'devastated' by the deaths of their family Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt.

Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of racing commentator John, and their daughters Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were found fatally injured at their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire on Tuesday (9 July).

The three women died 'a short time later' at the scene.

A manhunt later ensued for suspect Kyle Clifford, with the 26-year-old being arrested on suspicion of the murders at Hilly Fields area of Enfield on Wednesday (10 July).

The crossbow has also been recovered by police.

Clifford, who is understood to have left the British Army in 2022, was found injured in the area and was later taken to hospital, where he remains in a 'serious condition'.

John with his wife Carol Hunt. (BBC)

Releasing a statement via the BBC, John and his daughter Amy thanked people for their 'kind messages', adding that the devastation they were feeling couldn't be 'put into words'.

"The devastation that we are experiencing cannot be put into words," they said.

"We would like to thank people for their kind messages and for the support we have received in recent days. These have provided great comfort to us for which we are very grateful.

"As you can imagine, this is an extremely difficult time for us, and we need time and space to come to terms with what has happened and start the grieving process."

Locals have since paid their respects to the three women, with flowers being left at the family home in Bushey, while a vigil was also held at in their honour at St James’ Church on Thursday (11 July).

25-year-old Louise Hunt had been killed alongside her mum, Carol, and older sister Hannah. (Facebook)

Lea Holloway, 60, who had known Carol since they were both teenagers told PA: "This is the stuff nightmares are made of. They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls.

"They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. It’s the thing of nightmares.

"I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I can’t imagine what it would be like."

Hannah Hunt’s colleagues at The Anti-Ageing Clinic in Radlett, Hertfordshire have also paid their respects, writing on Facebook that she was a 'a fantastic therapist and clients loved her'.

Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire major crime unit, added: "Our thoughts remain with the victims’ family at this tragic time.

"The investigation is moving at pace and as a result, we have now arrested a man. Inquiries are continuing at this time."