I know that our whole community was heartbroken to learn of the murders of Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt in Bushey.

They were known to many residents in the area, and we cannot begin to imagine what their family and friends are going through at the moment. As John and Amy Hunt put it, their devastation “cannot be put into words”.

At this incredibly difficult time we are holding them in our hearts and prayers.

We hope that the perpetrator will be brought to justice. The police continue to ask that anyone with information or footage that could assist them with their investigation to please contact them.

Events such as this do cause all of us to ask how something like this could happen in this part of Hertfordshire.

I know that questions are being asked about the laws around access to the weapon used to commit this crime.

Others have highlighted the shocking statistics showing the extent of violence against women and girls. For example, in 2022, 1.7 million women in the UK experienced domestic abuse.

If you have been a victim or fear you may become a victim of violence in the home, please contact the police in an emergency or call the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088 for advice and support.

I know that our community will come together to offer help and support to those grieving after this cruel and inhuman act.

We must redouble our efforts to create a society where nobody suffers because of abuse or violence.

  • Peter Taylor is the elected mayor of Watford