Kyle Clifford convicted of raping and murdering Louise Hunt before killing her sister and mother in Bushey. (Photograph by Louise Parry/BBC)
(EPICSTORIAN) — Kyle Clifford, 26, has been convicted of raping and murdering his ex-girlfriend, Louise Hunt, before killing her sister and mother in a planned attack at their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire.
The verdict was delivered at Cambridge Crown Court, where Clifford had already admitted to the three murders, according to a report cited by BBC.
Louise, 25, ended her relationship with Clifford just over two weeks before the killings. Evidence presented in court showed he had spent days researching weapons and monitoring her movements.
Kyle Clifford Tormented His Victims Before Killing Them
Prosecutors detailed how he entered the family home on July 9, 2024, under the pretense of returning Louise’s belongings. Her mother, Carol Hunt, 61, was the first victim, stabbed to death shortly after letting him inside.
Louise arrived later, unaware of the danger. Clifford overpowered her, restrained her with tape, and subjected her to hours of violence before killing her with a crossbow.
Hannah Hunt, 28, returned home in the evening and was also shot with the same weapon. Before succumbing to her injuries, she managed to send a desperate message to her partner, urging them to call the police.
A manhunt followed. Clifford was found the next day at Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, severely injured from a self-inflicted crossbow wound to the chest. His injuries left him paralyzed from the chest down.
Investigators uncovered a trail of online activity showing Clifford’s preparations, including purchases of a crossbow, knife, and duct tape.
He had also viewed content from social media figure Andrew Tate less than 24 hours before the killings. Prosecutors argued that exposure to violent misogyny reinforced his controlling behavior.
Relatives of the Hunt family attended the trial and welcomed the guilty verdict. A senior officer involved in the case described Clifford’s actions as a calculated attempt to exert control over Louise after she chose to end their relationship.
In addition to murder, Clifford’s conviction for rape was deemed necessary to fully acknowledge the severity of his crimes.
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Prosecutors emphasized that securing a conviction for sexual violence was crucial, despite his prior guilty plea to murder.
The sentencing phase is expected to follow, with Clifford facing a potential life term.
