A former British soldier, Kyle Clifford, has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murders of his ex-girlfriend, her sister, and their mother using a crossbow and a knife. The court handed down a whole-life order, ensuring he will never be released

During the sentencing, Justice Joel Bennathan described Clifford, 26, as “a jealous man soaked in self-pity” who holds women in “utter contempt.” Clifford, who refused to attend the hearing, pleaded guilty earlier this year to murdering Louise Hunt, 25; her sister Hannah Hunt, 28; and their mother Carol Hunt, 61, in a premeditated attack on July 9, 2024. He was convicted on multiple counts including three counts of murder, false imprisonment, and possession of offensive weapons, alongside being found guilty of raping Louise during the attack.

Prosecutors revealed that Clifford meticulously planned the murders after growing enraged when Louise ended their 18-month relationship. He gained access to the family home in Bushey under false pretenses, claiming to return Louise’s belongings. Once inside, he waited to attack; using a crossbow and knife, he brutally killed Carol Hunt before targeting Louise upon her return. Hannah was shot fatally as she entered the home shortly after.

In a shocking detail revealed during the trial, it was stated that Clifford had searched for podcasts by misogynistic influencer Andrew Tate less than a day prior to the murders, suggesting that the “violent misogyny” promoted by Tate fueled his heinous actions.

Following the murders, law enforcement conducted a manhunt for Clifford, who was later found injured in a cemetery after having shot himself with the crossbow. He remains paralyzed from the chest down. John Hunt, a BBC sports commentator and victim’s husband, delivered an impactful statement during the court session, illustrating his anguish and urging women to take inspiration from his daughter’s bravery in leaving an abusive relationship.

He expressed, “If you feel enough is enough, then it is,” as he condemned Clifford as a “psychopath” who pretended to be an ordinary individual.