A murder investigation is underway after a woman was shot and killed outside the Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, near Sevenoaks, on Valentine’s Night (February 14, 2025).

Police have since recovered a vehicle and firearm linked to the attack from the Dartford Crossing, amid concerns that the suspect may have jumped from the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge into the River Thames.

Fatal Shooting Outside Busy Village Pub

Kent Police were called to the Three Horseshoes pub on Main Road, Knockholt, shortly after 7:00 PM following reports of a disturbance.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, where they discovered a woman in her 40s suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite desperate attempts to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The victim’s next of kin has been informed, and police have confirmed that a man known to her is the prime suspect.

Suspect’s Vehicle and Firearm Recovered at Dartford Crossing

As part of their investigation, officers later attended the Dartford Crossing, where they recovered a vehicle connected to the killing, along with a firearm.

Reports emerged that someone had fallen from the bridge, with a police helicopter seen hovering low over the River Thames in an apparent search operation just before midnight.

While the suspect has not been found, one line of inquiry is that he may have jumped from the bridge into the Thames.

Police Confirm Investigation is Ongoing

A Kent Police spokesperson said:
“Our investigation remains ongoing to identify and locate all persons potentially involved in this tragic incident. The recovery of a vehicle and firearm linked to the case is a significant development, and officers are pursuing all leads.”

Forensic teams have been working through the night at the pub’s crime scene, marking and collecting bullet casings near a Seat Ateca, believed to be linked to the shooting.

Shock and Disbelief Among Residents

The village of Knockholt has been left stunned by the incident, which unfolded outside a busy pub on Valentine’s Night.

Parish Councillor Ray Picot, who lives nearby, said:
*”It’s a shock. We’ve never had anything like this happen before. The pub is always well-run and never has trouble.

I understand those inside the pub were ushered back to their homes by police, as they were all in terrible shock. It sounded awful.”*

Eyewitnesses Recall the Chaos

Locals described hearing three loud bangs at the time of the shooting.

Forensic Teams Scour Scene as Cordon Remains in Place

The Three Horseshoes pub has confirmed its temporary closure, posting on Facebook:
*”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.”*

A large police cordon remains in place, with forensic officers examining the crime scene, which has been sealed off with a blue tent near the pub.

Residents reported being escorted into their homes as officers continue their inquiries.

Police Appeal for Information

Police are urging anyone with dashcam footage, CCTV, or information about the suspect’s movements to come forward.

Call Kent Police on 101, quoting the incident details.
To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

This is a developing story—further updates to follow.