A tragic incident unfolded on Valentine’s Day in Knockholt, Kent, when Lisa Smith, 43, was fatally shot outside The Three Horseshoes pub. The prime suspect, her husband Edvard Stockings, reportedly phoned a friend shortly after the shooting, confessing to the crime before vanishing.
The Incident
On the evening of February 14, 2025, emergency services were called to The Three Horseshoes pub after reports of gunfire. Witnesses recalled hearing multiple shots and seeing chaos erupt as people fled the scene.
Lisa Smith was found with serious gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts to save her. The suspect, Stockings, was seen fleeing moments after the attack.
The Chilling Confession
Within hours of the killing, Stockings allegedly made a haunting phone call to a close friend, Leslie Thompson. Reports indicate he said, “She’s dead, I love you. I’ll see you on the other side.”
This call, along with Stockings’ swift disappearance, has led investigators to believe he may have planned his next steps immediately after the shooting.
The Suspect’s Disappearance
Authorities traced Stockings’ movements after the incident. His car was found abandoned near the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge at Dartford. A firearm was also recovered nearby, intensifying concerns that he may have jumped into the River Thames.
A large-scale search operation involving police divers and rescue teams has been underway, but as of now, Stockings remains missing.
Community in Shock
The small community of Knockholt has been left reeling from the tragedy. Friends and family of Lisa Smith have described her as a “kind-hearted, loving mother” who did not deserve such a fate.
Floral tributes and messages have been placed outside the pub, with many expressing sorrow and disbelief.
Police Investigation and Response
Detective Chief Inspector David Higham has assured the public that authorities are not seeking any other suspects at this time.
“We are doing everything possible to locate the suspect. The investigation is ongoing, and we urge anyone with information to come forward.”
The circumstances leading up to the shooting are still being examined, with domestic violence and previous disputes being potential factors.
Ongoing Search and Legal Implications
Authorities are continuing their search efforts, scouring the Thames and surrounding areas. If Stockings is found alive, he will likely face murder charges, and his phone records will play a key role in the case.
For now, the focus remains on seeking justice for Lisa Smith and providing answers to her grieving loved ones.
This shocking event has raised fresh concerns about domestic violence and gun-related crime in the UK, sparking conversations about how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.
FAQs
1. What happened in the Kent pub shooting?
Lisa Smith, 43, was fatally shot outside The Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent, on February 14, 2025. Her husband, Edvard Stockings, is the prime suspect.
2. Did the suspect confess to the crime?
Yes, reports suggest that Stockings called a friend shortly after the shooting and admitted to killing Lisa Smith before disappearing.
3. Has the suspect been found?
Stockings’ car and a firearm were found near the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, leading authorities to suspect he may have jumped into the Thames. The search for him is ongoing.
4. What has been the reaction from the community?
The local community has expressed deep sorrow, with many remembering Lisa Smith as a kind and loving person.
5. What are police doing now?
Police are continuing their investigation and search efforts while urging anyone with information to come forward.
Please don’t forget to leave a review.
