Hertfordshire Police have urged the public to “not approach and dial 999 immediately” if they spot 26-year-old Kyle Clifford.
The man, from Enfield, north London, is wanted in connection with murders of three women who were found fatally injured in a house in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire, just after 7pm on Tuesday.
In a press conference, the police reaffirmed their calls for the public to aid their efforts in hunting down the suspect.
Speaking outside Hertfordshire Constabulary, Jon Simpson said: “We have extensive police resources deployed to various locations of north London and also the Bushey area of Hertfordshire.
Police have named Kyle Clifford as the prime suspectPolice handout“The manhunt also involves armed police officers and also specialist search teams responding at pace in the wake of what has been a horrific incident.
“It involves what is currently believed to be a crossbow but other weapons may have been used.
“If members of the public see Kyle Clifford, they are urged not to approach him at any point and dial 999 immediately.”
Extending their appeal to the suspect himself, the officer said: “Kyle, if you are seeing or hearing this, please make contact with the police via 999.”
He added: “Beyond the immediate search operation, a major crime inquiry has been launched and we also appeal to the public for any information relating to the incident.
“This incident will of course be of concern to local residents. Additional local officers will be in the area today, so please speak to them if you want to.”
Forensic officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire
PA
Local councillors for the North Bushey area said they were “deeply shocked and saddened” by the news of the deaths.
A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said she did not know the victims well but they were a friendly family.
“We would see them every day passing by and they would say good morning,” she said.
“It’s really sad what’s happened, very shocking.”
An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called around 7pm on Tuesday July 9 to a property in Ashlyn Close in Bushey.
“Three ambulances, a rapid response vehicle, an ambulance officer vehicle, the Hazardous Area Response Team, the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance and London Air Ambulance were sent to the scene.
“Sadly, despite the team’s best efforts, three women were pronounced dead at the scene.”
Local councillors for the area Louise Nicolas, Alan Matthews and Paul Richards said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic news that three women have lost their lives in a violent incident which took place in the heart of our local community.
“As North Bushey councillors, we extend our thoughts and condolences to their families and all those affected.
“We would encourage anyone who has information relevant to the inquiry to contact police.”