The proprietor of a local pub where a woman lost her life on Valentine’s Day has informed Sky News that the deceased was enjoying drinks at the establishment prior to being fatally shot in the parking area.
Michelle Thomas, who manages The Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent, stated that she was busy printing menus and setting up for the Valentine’s dinner when she heard two loud noises, which she initially “mistook for fireworks”.
“There was a tremendous amount of chaos – screaming, shouting, crying. People were outside, on their mobile devices. We attempted to usher patrons into the pub for their safety.
“Many had just begun to sit down; it was still early in the evening,” she recounted.
Floral tributes have been placed near the site of the shooting
Cans of Red Bull were also placed among the flowers, indicating a link with the local community
She recounted how an off-duty police officer equipped with a firearm stepped in, describing him as “remarkable” for his role in managing the situation after the shooting that occurred on Friday.
Approximately 30 patrons were dining at the pub, while an additional 20 were in the bar when the tragic event unfolded shortly after 7 p.m.
The establishment near Sevenoaks reopened its doors on Sunday; however, Ms. Thomas mentioned that the local population is experiencing “complete shock”.
She indicated that the victim, whose name has not yet been disclosed, had visited the pub previously “mainly in the summer,” but was “not a frequent customer”.
Authorities have confirmed that the woman, believed to be in her 40s, is thought to have been acquainted with her assailant.
Floral offerings were placed in the parking lot of the pub, as the homicide investigation proceeds.
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Investigators discovered a vehicle connected to the case on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which spans the River Thames in Dartford, roughly 17 miles (27 km) from the shooting site.
Police dispatch received reports of a man positioned improperly on the bridge’s barrier.
Detective Chief Inspector David Higham stated they “are not discounting the chance that he may have fallen into the river”.
“At this time, we are searching for only one suspect and do not consider there to be an ongoing threat to the public,” he elaborated.
Laura Trott, Conservative MP for Sevenoaks and Swanley, expressed her “deep sorrow” regarding the shooting. In a Facebook post, she remarked: “My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends affected.
“I recognize that our community will be in disbelief at this news, but this is an active investigation, and we must permit the police to carry out their duties.”
