The shocking incident of a shooting outside The Three Horseshoes pub on Valentine’s Day has left a community in mourning and police conducting an extensive investigation.
The tragedy unfolded in Knockholt, Kent, when 43-year-old Lisa Smith was fatally shot outside the pub just after 7 pm. The suspect, identified as Edvard Stockings, also known by the surname Smith, is now believed to have died after falling from the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge at Dartford, 17 miles away.
The police investigation has so far suggested that Stockings abandoned his car on the bridge, where a handgun was also discovered, before he was seen on the wrong side of the barrier. Despite ongoing searches of the River Thames, his body has not yet been recovered.
Valentine’s Day Shooting outside The Three Horseshoes pub
Lisa Smith, a resident of Slough, was outside The Three Horseshoes pub when she was fatally shot in an attack that shocked the local community. Witnesses described a chaotic scene with customers inside the pub reacting in horror as the violence unfolded.
According to Michelle Thomas, the landlady of the establishment, the customers were “screaming, shouting, and crying” when they realized what had happened. Around 50 people were present at the time of the shooting, with many enjoying dinner or drinks before the sudden outbreak of violence disrupted the evening.
Emergency services arrived swiftly, but Lisa Smith was pronounced dead at the scene due to the gunshot wounds. The suspect, Edvard Stockings, was reportedly known to Lisa, though the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear.
Authorities confirmed that there had been no prior police contact between the suspect and the victim, making the attack all the more shocking to those who knew them.
The man suspected of fatally shooting his wife, Lisa Smith, outside a pub in Knockholt called friends after it happened and revealed what he had done, the BBC has been told.
— BBC Kent (@BBCRadioKent) February 18, 2025
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Stockings, who had been a long-time acquaintance of Leslie Thompson, reportedly made a chilling phone call less than two hours after the shooting. He told Thompson, “She’s dead, I love you. I’ll see you on the other side.” This statement has led investigators to believe that he had already made the decision to take his own life by jumping from the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge.
The Search for the Suspect and His Fate
Following the shooting, the suspect’s vehicle was found abandoned on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, a key crossing over the River Thames connecting Dartford and Thurrock.
Inside the vehicle, police discovered a handgun, which is now believed to be the weapon used in the shooting. CCTV footage and witness accounts suggest that Stockings climbed over the barrier and fell into the Thames.
Since the incident, authorities, including the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade, and Coastguard, have been conducting exhaustive searches of the river in an effort to locate Stockings’ body. Despite these efforts, his remains have not yet been recovered.
Detective Chief Inspector Dave Higham, who is leading the investigation, stated, “We have carried out a full and extensive investigation into Lisa’s tragic murder, and our inquiries have concluded that the suspect is believed to have died after falling into the River Thames.
These searches are ongoing, and whilst our investigation will continue, we will be preparing our findings and reports to assist the coroner.”
Forensic experts are now piecing together the sequence of events that led to the shooting and subsequent apparent suicide. Police are also speaking to witnesses who were present at The Three Horseshoes pub to understand what may have triggered the attack.
Community Shock and Mourning
Lisa Smith’s death has left her family and the local community devastated. Described as a loving daughter and mother, her senseless killing has brought a wave of grief to those who knew her. Friends and relatives have paid tribute to Lisa, remembering her as a vibrant and caring individual who did not deserve such a tragic fate.
The local community in Knockholt is still coming to terms with the shocking event. Many residents are struggling to understand why the attack happened, particularly given that there was no known history of violence between Lisa Smith and Edvard Stockings.
Long-time acquaintance Leslie Thompson expressed his disbelief, stating, “They were both the life and soul of the party. We really don’t know why he has done it. I’m baffled.”
Authorities have also been offering support to those who witnessed the tragedy at The Three Horseshoes pub, recognizing the trauma that such an incident can cause. The pub remains under a heavy emotional cloud, with patrons and staff shaken by the events of that evening.
In the wake of the tragedy, questions remain about what may have led Stockings to carry out such a brutal act. While police have not disclosed any potential motives, investigators are looking into all possible circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police have reiterated that there were no prior reports of threats or violence between the suspect and the victim. This absence of a clear motive has only deepened the sense of confusion and sorrow surrounding the case.
Lisa’s family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences they have received from the community. They have also requested privacy as they grieve their loss and await further developments in the investigation.
As the search for Stockings’ body continues, authorities are urging anyone who may have information regarding his movements or any other relevant details to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement determined to provide answers to Lisa Smith’s family and the community.
This tragic incident has left many wondering how such violence could erupt so suddenly, particularly on a day meant to celebrate love and connection. As more details emerge, the hope is that justice and closure can be found for those affected by this devastating crime.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏