Kent: Woman killed in Valentine's Day shooting at village pub

A murder investigation is under way after a woman in her 40s was shot dead at a pub in Kent on Valentine's Day.

Kent Police were called to a reported disturbance at The Three Horseshoes in the village of Knockholt near Sevenoaks just after 7pm on Friday.

In a statement, the force said officers found a woman who "had suffered injuries consistent with gunshot wounds".

"She was declared deceased at the scene and a murder investigation is under way. Her next of kin has been informed," police said.

A male suspect, who is thought to be known to the victim, fled the scene and attempts to locate him are continuing.

Officers discovered a vehicle linked to the incident and a firearm at the Dartford Crossing in Kent.

Pictures from the scene of the shooting on Friday night showed forensic teams in white overalls examining an area of the car park next to the pub and carrying plastic evidence bags.

A white forensic screen was placed inside the parking area while a blue tarpaulin was put up next to a blue Seat parked at the entrance to the car park.

The passenger side window of the vehicle had smashed and shattered glass could be seen around the car.

What appears to be bullet casings have also reportedly been spotted on the ground, where numbered yellow evidence markers are also visible.

Police have also established cordons around the pub in the centre of the village of Knockholt, around five miles (8km) northwest of Sevenoaks.

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Sky News correspondent Mollie Malone described Knockholt as a leafy village and currently a "community in shock" after people had been enjoying a Valentine's evening at the local pub.

She spoke to local residents, including John Webb, who said he was having a meal inside when "about seven o'clock something happened outside... and then we heard someone had been shot. We stayed in the pub until they escorted us out".

Meanwhile, local parish councillor Ray Picot said that "just after seven o'clock last night I heard two loud bangs, which I just thought was a car accident... really thought nothing of it".

"A bit later we looked out and we could see the blue flashing lights," he added.

Another local, Vicky Hesketh, said she saw "someone on the floor being given CPR by paramedics".

"It's like a really typical, normal village. Everyone knows everyone. It's not something you expect to happen," she added.

A statement from The Three Horseshoes pub said: "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 x thank you."

(c) Sky News 2025: Kent: Woman killed in Valentine's Day shooting at village pub