A manhunt is underway following a reported shooting at the Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent, which occurred on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2025. Police were alerted to the scene just after 7:00 PM GMT after reports of a disturbance indicating something serious had taken place. Emergency services arrived to find the woman, aged in her 40s, suffering from what authorities describe as serious injuries.
Witnesses at the pub claimed they heard gunfire, with reports confirming the sound of helicopters overhead as police cordoned off the surrounding area. The pub is located on Main Road, about five miles northeast of Sevenoaks, and has been closed since the incident.
According to Kent Police, the suspect is described as a man known to the victim, who reportedly fled the scene after the shooting. A police spokesman confirmed, "Kent Police was called at 7:02 PM to a report of a disturbance at the Three Horseshoes pub... Enquiries to locate him and to establish the full circumstances are continuing." Meanwhile, police have erected major cordons around both Main Road and Pound Lane and have begun examining the area for evidence.
Steve Maines, a parish councillor present nearby when the incident unfolded, recounted the situation, saying, "We were sitting having our Valentine's Day meal when all of a sudden we heard this huge commotion outside... We were told someone had been shot so we had to leave." His account captures the sudden shift from a celebratory atmosphere to alarm and chaos.
Local pub-goer Emma also expressed her disbelief at the severity of the incident on social media, stating, "Bloody crazy, we were there for 5 hours today for my Grandad's wake today. Poor woman!" Her sentiments highlight the shock experienced by patrons who witnessed or were aware of the events surrounding the pub on what should have been a festive day.
Forensics teams have set up blue tents outside the pub as investigations continue, and residents nearby were seen escorted back to their homes as police worked to secure the area. The local community is grappling with the reality of violence breaking out at their familiar gathering place, and the Three Horseshoes pub has posted on its Facebook page stating it will remain closed indefinitely as investigations proceed. "The Three Horseshoes will be CLOSED today Saturday 15th February following a tragic incident outside the pub last night, sorry for any inconvenience. Hopefully we will be open on Sunday as usual x thank you," the notice read.
With major police activity continuing, and detailed attempts being made to locate the suspect, this event has shaken the normally peaceful village, making residents and patrons alike question their safety during even the most innocent occasions.