Manhunt for the crossbow killer One dead and pregnant partner seriously injur ed
POLICE have launched a murder hunt after a man was killed and a pregnant woman seriously injured in their home by an intruder with a crossbow.
Detectives have revealed they are searching for Anthony Lawrence, 55, who allegedly escaped in a dark blue Vauxhall Meriva later found abandoned close by.
They don’t believe he is dangerous, but say he shouldn’t be approached.
A family friend of the deceased, who has been named locally as dad-of-three Shane Gilmer, 30, said: “My mate’s brother has been shot with a crossbow and killed and now this man’s on the run – it’s awful.” The victim died in Hull Royal Infirmary. The woman, said to be his partner, is believed to be in the same hospital with serious but not life-threatening injuries.
Neighbour Chris King, 25, said she was “pouring with blood” as she desperately sought help from nearby residents in the hamlet of Southburn, near Driffield, East Yorks, on Friday.
Factory worker Mr King said of the incident: “He’d used a crossbow and other weapons to attack the couple after breaking into the property through their cellar. It was terrifying. The woman was panicking and was scared.”
Chief Insp Andy Parsons said of the alleged assailant: “At this time we do not believe he is dangerous to the wider public.” Anyone who sees Lawrence is being told to call 999. A Humberside Police spokesperson added: “Our teams, including dog units and the police helicopter, are continuing to work to urgently trace the suspect and establish the circumstances of events.” East Riding Councillor Felicity Temple said: “I am very sorry it has happened and I just hope they can get the chap soon. “My deep, heart- f elt sympathies go out to the family of those involved.”