John Hunt’s wife and two daughters were killed earlier this year
A man has been charged with the murders of the wife and two daughters of BBC racing commentator John Hunt.
Kyle Clifford, 26, is currently in custody and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (17 September).
John’s wife Carol Hunt, 61, and two of their daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were found fatally injured at the family home in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on 9 July.
Clifford has been charged with three counts of murder, false imprisonment and two counts of possession of offensive weapons.
Kyle Clifford, 26, has been arrested on suspicion of the crossbow murders of three family members of a BBC racing commentator (PA)
Lisa Ramsarran, chief crown prosecutor for CPS Thames and Chiltern, said: “Our thoughts remain with the Hunt family and all those who have been affected by this tragic incident.
“As criminal proceedings are active, there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online that could prejudice the defendant’s right to a fair trial.”
John was set to be part of the BBC’s commentary team for the 2024 Olympic Games, but understandably withdrew as he and his daughter Amy said they ‘need time and space to come to terms with what has happened and start the grieving process’.
His appearance in Brighton in last week was a pleasant surprise and joy to racing fans, while Hunt gave an emotional statement explaining his return to work.
Racing commentator John Hunt with his wife Carol (BBC)
Hunt said: “Carol and I had our last weekend away together in Brighton at the end of May and, looking out from the press box, out to sea, my knees buckled recalling us on the wild rapids ride on the pier just over three months ago. Soaked to the skin and laughing like teenagers.
“But I know the girls are with me, at all times and would have been gently encouraging me to take a breath or two, and stride on.”
He continued: “The warmth from everyone at the track was so striking with hugs and kindness washing over me all day. My thanks to everyone who has contacted me, to Racetech who made things so straightforward, and all racegoers who said hello.
“Amy and I are determined to take small steps forward whenever we feel able. To that end, today was a good day and I’m grateful for it.”
(PA)
In July, John and 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.”
