Manhunt Launched After Woman Shot at Kent Pub on Valentine’s Night
A chilling Valentine’s Day night turned deadly at the Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent, when a woman in her 40s was shot twice in the head in front of shocked customers. Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who fled the scene before officers arrived.
Gunman Opens Fire and Escapes
Kent Police were called to the Three Horseshoes on Main Road at 7:02 PM on Friday, February 14, 2025, after reports of a disturbance. Officers and South East Coast Ambulance Service paramedics rushed to the pub, where they found the victim with serious gunshot wounds.
The suspect, believed to be known to the victim, fled the scene and remains on the run. Police are treating the shooting as a serious incident and are investigating whether it was a targeted attack.
Witnesses Recall Horror Inside Pub
Terrified witnesses described the terror as they heard gunshots and saw panic erupt inside the pub.
“We were sitting having our Valentine’s Day meal when suddenly there was a huge commotion outside in the car park,” said local parish councillor Steve Maines. “We were told someone had been shot, so we had to leave immediately.”
Forensic teams have cordoned off Main Road and Pound Lane, with a blue forensic tarpaulin set up near the pub as police comb the area for clues.
Pub Closes, Damaged Car Found Nearby
The Three Horseshoes announced it would be closed on Saturday, February 15, following the tragic incident. The pub’s Facebook posted: “The Three Horseshoes will be CLOSED today, Saturday 15th February, following a tragic incident outside the pub last night. Sorry for any inconvenience. Hopefully, we will be open on Sunday as usual. Thank you.”
Police discovered a Seat car near the pub’s car park with a smashed front passenger window. Two open drink cans were found inside, linking the vehicle to the incident.
Police Urge Public to Help Find Shooter
Kent Police have not confirmed if the shooting was targeted but are appealing for anyone with information to come forward immediately.
A spokesperson for Kent Police said: “Officers attended the scene along with South East Coast Ambulance Service, where a woman in her 40s had suffered serious injuries. The suspect, a man believed to be known to the victim, left the area and remains outstanding. Enquiries to locate him and to establish the full circumstances are ongoing.”
If you have any information, call Kent Police on 101 quoting the incident details. You can also report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
This is a developing story—more updates to follow as police continue their investigation.
