A Valentine’s Day tragedy has shocked the small village of Knockholt, Kent, after a mother of two was fatally shot outside a pub. The victim, Lisa Smith, 43, was gunned down outside The Three Horseshoes pub in what authorities believe was a targeted attack. Police have identified her partner as the prime suspect, who reportedly fled the scene and may have entered the River Thames following the killing.
This devastating event has left the tight-knit community in mourning, with tributes pouring in for Lisa as authorities continue their manhunt and investigation.
The Incident: Valentine’s Day Shooting
At around 7:00 PM on February 14, 2025, Lisa Smith was shot twice outside The Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, a quiet village near Sevenoaks, Kent.
Witnesses reported hearing two loud bangs, initially mistaking them for fireworks before realizing the horrific reality. Patrons inside the pub were left screaming and crying as Lisa collapsed outside. Despite the rapid arrival of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
The suspect, believed to be Lisa’s partner, was seen fleeing the area immediately after the shooting.
According to pub landlady Michelle Thomas, the tragic events unfolded just moments after Lisa had been inside the pub laughing and talking with friends.
“I heard two really loud bangs but thought it was just someone messing around. Then there were screams, and everything changed.”
The Suspect: Partner on the Run?
Police believe Lisa Smith’s partner was responsible for the attack.
After fleeing the scene, authorities tracked the suspect’s movements 17 miles away to the Dartford Crossing. There, officers discovered:
- A vehicle linked to the suspect, abandoned near the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
- A firearm believed to have been used in the attack
- Reports that a man was seen climbing the bridge barrier and possibly entering the River Thames
Detective Chief Inspector David Higham confirmed that authorities are not ruling out the possibility that the suspect jumped into the river in an attempt to escape or take his own life.
“This was an isolated and targeted incident. We are actively searching for the suspect, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.”
Search efforts, including police divers and river patrol teams, are ongoing to determine the suspect’s whereabouts.
Who Was Lisa Smith?
Lisa Smith was a beloved mother of two from Slough, described by friends and family as a kind, loving, and devoted parent. She had reportedly been in a troubled relationship with her partner, and investigators are looking into whether domestic violence or a history of abuse played a role in the shooting.
Tributes have been left outside the pub, where friends and family have gathered to pay their respects.
One close friend wrote:
“Lisa was one of the kindest, most caring people you could meet. She adored her children, and we are absolutely heartbroken.”
Community in Shock
The village of Knockholt, known for its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere, is now grieving the loss of one of its own.
Residents have expressed shock and disbelief at the violent nature of the crime. Parish Councillor Ray Picot described how the incident has shaken the entire community:
“Knockholt is a quiet place. We don’t see things like this happen here. The entire village is in mourning.”
Floral tributes and candles have been placed outside The Three Horseshoes pub, with many gathering to offer condolences and prayers for Lisa’s family.
The Police Investigation: What Happens Next?
Kent Police have launched a full-scale murder investigation, focusing on:
- Locating the suspect – Search efforts in the River Thames and surrounding areas continue.
- Establishing a motive – Investigators are examining Lisa’s relationship with the suspect, looking for any signs of previous domestic abuse or threats.
- Gathering evidence – CCTV footage, forensic analysis, and witness statements are being collected to piece together Lisa’s final moments.
Authorities are also appealing to the public for any information that might assist in the search for the suspect.
🚨 Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Kent Police immediately.
The Rise in Domestic Violence Cases
Lisa Smith’s tragic death is part of a wider pattern of domestic-related violence in the UK.
Shocking Statistics:
- On average, two women are killed every week in England and Wales by a current or former partner.
- More than 1.6 million women experience domestic abuse each year.
- Calls to domestic violence helplines increased by 25% in 2024.
Lisa’s case is a devastating reminder of the dangers some women face in their own relationships.
Organizations such as Refuge UK and Women’s Aid have urged women in abusive situations to seek help before it’s too late.
Need help? Contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247.
Final Thoughts: A Community Mourns
The Valentine’s Day shooting of Lisa Smith has left a family devastated, a community in shock, and a nation mourning another life lost to violence.
As the police continue their investigation and search for the suspect, Lisa’s friends and family are left with unanswered questions and unimaginable grief.
For now, the village of Knockholt comes together to remember a woman who was loved by many—a mother whose only crime was trusting the wrong person.
Rest in peace, Lisa.
FAQs
1. Who was Lisa Smith?
Lisa Smith was a 43-year-old mother of two from Slough. She was tragically shot outside a pub on Valentine’s Day, allegedly by her partner.
2. Has the suspect been found?
No, police believe the suspect may have jumped into the River Thames after abandoning his car and weapon near the Dartford Crossing. Search efforts are still ongoing.
3. Did Lisa have a history of domestic abuse?
While authorities have not confirmed past reports of domestic violence, they are investigating whether Lisa’s relationship with the suspect involved previous threats or abuse.
4. What is being done to find the suspect?
Police have launched a murder investigation and are using river patrols, divers, and forensic teams to locate the suspect and uncover further evidence.
5. How can people help?
Anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts or the events leading up to the crime should contact Kent Police immediately.
