A woman in her 40s has died following a shooting at the Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent, on the evening of Valentine’s Day. Kent Police confirmed that the victim was shot shortly after 7 pm on Friday and was declared dead at the scene. Authorities believe the suspect was known to the victim, and a search operation is now underway.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred at the popular Three Horseshoes pub, located in the quiet village of Knockholt near Sevenoaks. Witnesses reported hearing multiple loud bangs, followed by panic and confusion among patrons.
According to Kent Police, officers and paramedics from the South East Coast Ambulance Service responded to the scene, where they found the woman with gunshot wounds. Despite their efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her next of kin has been informed, though her identity has not yet been publicly released.
Eyewitness Accounts
Local residents and witnesses described the chaotic scene that unfolded during what should have been a celebratory evening.
- Ray Picot, a parish councillor, told Kent Online: “It’s a shock. We’ve never had anything like this. It’s a very busy, well-managed pub, and this incident has left everyone in shock.”
- Steve Maines, another parish councillor who was at the pub with his family for Valentine’s Day, recounted: “We were sitting having our meal when we heard a huge commotion outside. Then we were told someone had been shot, and we had to leave.”
- Dorothy Wong, a nearby resident, reported hearing “three to four bangs and a woman shouting loudly.”
Police Investigation and Suspect Search
Kent Police have launched a murder investigation and are actively searching for the suspect. The investigation led officers to the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge at Dartford Crossing, where they found a vehicle linked to the shooting along with a firearm.
Authorities believe the suspect, a man who knew the victim, may have entered the water after reports surfaced of a man seen on the wrong side of the bridge’s safety barrier.
Official Police Statement
DCI David Higham, the senior investigating officer, said:
“We are not ruling out the possibility that the suspect entered the water. We are currently only looking for one individual and do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.”
The police have asked anyone with information about the incident or the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward immediately.
Community in Shock
The village of Knockholt is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making this incident particularly distressing for the community. The Three Horseshoes pub, popular for family gatherings and social events, has never been associated with trouble, according to locals.
Residents expressed their disbelief, with many describing the shooting as completely out of character for the area. Police officers have since cordoned off the pub and surrounding areas as investigations continue.
What Happens Next?
As the search for the suspect continues, Kent Police are working with local authorities and water rescue teams to locate the man, who is believed to have entered the River Thames. The murder investigation remains ongoing, with officers gathering statements from witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage from the pub and nearby areas.
The tragic shooting at the Three Horseshoes pub has left the small village of Knockholt in shock. While police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat, the community remains unsettled as the search for the suspect continues. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them to assist with the investigation.
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