Cambridge Crown Court is hearing the harrowing case of Kyle Clifford, the 26-year-old man accused of murdering his ex-partner and her family. The charges include three counts of murder, one of false imprisonment, and two counts of possession of offensive weapons, with the testimonies presented painting a chilling story of premeditated violence.
On July 9, 2024, Clifford allegedly killed his former partner, Louise Hunt, aged 25, her sister, 28-year-old Hannah Hunt, and their mother, 61-year-old Carol Hunt during a brutal attack at the family home located in Bushey, Hertfordshire. The jury has heard how the events unfolded, starting with Clifford deceiving Carol Hunt to gain entry to their residence.
During the opening of the prosecution, Alison Morgan KC provided details on the calculated methodology behind the crimes. “The defendant tricked the 61-year-old mother, who was the wife of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, to allow him inside the house,” Morgan stated, before proceeding to stab her to death during what she described as a “brutal knife attack.”
Following the violent act against Carol, Clifford is alleged to have awaited Louise's return, restraining her with duct tape before shooting her with a crossbow. “He then fatally shot Hannah Hunt when she returned home from work,” Morgan told the jury.
CCTV footage was played for the jury, showing Clifford purchasing duct tape and fuel cans from two stores shortly before the murders took place. This evidence, along with his admission to murder and false imprisonment, frames the case firmly against him.
Despite admitting to these charges, Clifford denies the allegation of rape, which prosecutors claim was committed during the attacks on Louise. Alison Morgan described the act as “a violent, sexual act of spite” stemming from Clifford’s extreme anger over the ending of their 18-month relationship.
According to Morgan, the motive for the murders lay deeply rooted in the rejected advances from Louise, who had recently sought to end their troubled relationship. “Louise instigated the end of the relationship, supported by her friends and family. This rejection angered the defendant, leading to the premeditated attacks on her family. He was upset not only with Louise but also with the Hunts, as he believed they influenced her decision to end their relationship,” Morgan explained.
Clifford, who served roughly three years in the military starting from 2019, was reportedly found injured later after attempting to take his own life. Following the murders, authorities launched a manhunt, which ended when they found him with self-inflicted injuries at Lavender Hill Cemetery, Enfield, north London, after firing the crossbow at himself.
The court heard from friends of Louise who had expressed concerns about her relationship with Clifford, describing him as having a “nasty temper” and “aggressive demeanor.” Her sister Hannah characterized him as “disrespectful, rude, and arrogant.” These insights from the victims’ circle highlight the toxic nature of Clifford and Louise’s relationship.
Just five days before the murders, Louise had taken the precaution of documenting her concerns about Clifford, including his negative views on various social issues and secretive behavior about other romantic interests. “She had written these notes on her phone, indicating her apprehensions about their relationship and his temperament,” Morgan said.
This disturbing trial continues to unravel the details surrounding the tragic events of July 9, 2024, as the prosecution works to prove the extent of Clifford’s premeditation and violent tendencies.
Mr. Justice Bennathan, overseeing the proceedings, reminded jurors to remain composed as they navigate the emotional responses elicited by the case. He instructed them to keep their focus on the facts presented, particularly pertaining to the charge of rape against Clifford, which remains vehemently contested.
Victim advocacy and support systems are expected to be highlighted as the trial progresses, providing resources for those affected by domestic violence and relationship abuse. The life stories of Carol, Louise, and Hannah Hunt prompt broader conversations about violence against women and mental health support following traumatic relationships.
While the legal system weighs its options, images of the once-charmed lives of the Hunt family linger heavily on the hearts of the community they left behind. With every detail laid bare, the pursuit of justice remains at the forefront of this emotional and troubling trial.
The jury will next determine how to best address the charges, taking with them the sorrowful echoes of the lost lives and the weight of the decisions they will soon face.