The serene streets of London were shattered by a horrifying tragedy earlier this week, leaving an entire community in mourning. A man suspected of a brutal crossbow attack that claimed the lives of Carol Hunt, 61, and her daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, is currently being treated at a major trauma center in a London hospital. As police officers intensify their search of related properties, the community grapples with the heartbreaking loss of three beloved women. The victims were the family members of John Hunt, the renowned horse racing commentator for BBC Radio.
Efforts were made by police and ambulance crews to save the lives of Carol and her daughters, but tragically, they were pronounced dead at the scene. The community turned out in droves at St. James’ Church for a memorial service to honor their memory. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues gathered to pay tribute and express their condolences to John Hunt and his remaining daughter. Among those grieving was Lea Holloway, a lifelong friend of Carol Hunt, who reminisced about their shared history and the deep bond they shared.
Hannah Hunt was a cherished skin therapist at The Anti-Ageing Clinic, and her colleagues expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt post on Facebook. The clinic shared their deep regret and sadness over the horrific murder of their friend and colleague. Louise Hunt, remembered fondly through her work as a dog groomer, also left an indelible mark on those who knew her. The community’s outpouring of grief underscores the profound impact these women had on those around them.
While the police have yet to disclose how or if the suspect is connected to the victims, they believe the attack was targeted. The BBC confirmed that the victims were indeed the family of John Hunt, the prominent voice behind BBC 5 Live’s horse racing commentary. The news left the BBC community reeling, with lead presenter Mark Chapman struggling to hold back tears as he spoke about the tragic events of what he described as a heartbreaking day.
The racing community also showed its support for Hunt during this difficult time. In a somber display of solidarity, jockeys at Kempton Park Racecourse donned black armbands, and Newmarket Racecourse observed a minute’s silence. The tragedy has resonated deeply within the horse racing world, illustrating the far-reaching impact of this devastating event.
This tragic incident is eerily reminiscent of another crossbow-related crime that took place in December 2021. A would-be assailant carrying a loaded crossbow broke into Windsor Castle with the intent to kill Queen Elizabeth II. Jaswant Singh Chail, who pleaded guilty to a treason charge, was sentenced to nine years in prison. The use of such a medieval weapon in modern-day crimes adds an unsettling layer to these already horrifying events.
As the investigation continues, the community remains united in its grief and support for John Hunt and his surviving daughter. The memory of Carol, Hannah, and Louise Hunt will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.