British police have launched an extensive manhunt for Kyle Clifford, 26, who is believed to be armed with a crossbow and potentially other weapons, following the brutal murder of three women in Bushey, northwest of London. The victims have been identified as the family members of renowned BBC radio horse racing commentator John Hunt.

Hertfordshire Police announced on Wednesday that Clifford is the prime suspect in the suspected triple murder. Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson described the incident as "horrific" and confirmed that armed police officers and specialist search teams are actively searching for Clifford. The public has been advised not to approach him if spotted.

The tragic event unfolded on Tuesday evening when police and ambulance crews were called to a house in Bushey. Upon arrival, they found three women ? aged 25, 28, and 61 ? severely injured. Despite efforts to save them, all three were pronounced dead at the scene.

BBC Radio 5 Live, the broadcaster's main news and sports radio channel, confirmed that the victims were Carol Hunt, the wife of John Hunt, and their two daughters. John Hunt, whose voice is familiar to millions through his coverage of prestigious horse racing events like the Grand National and The Derby, reportedly discovered the bodies upon returning home from a day's work at Lingfield Park racecourse.

In a message to BBC staff, the broadcaster expressed its condolences and described the incident as ?utterly devastating,? pledging full support to Hunt during this difficult time.

While police have not disclosed the nature of Clifford's relationship with the victims, British media reported that he was an ex-boyfriend of one of Hunt's daughters. Clifford had a brief stint in the British Army, leaving the service in 2022.

The country's new Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, has been briefed on the situation and called it ?truly shocking.? Cooper also noted that she is considering the results of a recent review into the regulation of crossbows in the UK, which currently do not require a license for ownership but are illegal to carry in public without a valid reason.

As the manhunt continues, police are urging anyone with information about Clifford?s whereabouts to come forward, while also reiterating the importance of not engaging with the suspect directly. The community remains on high alert as authorities work to bring the perpetrator to justice and provide support to those affected by this tragedy.