A manhunt has been launched after three women were killed in a house.

The women were found seriously injured at a property in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire, just before 19:00 BST on Tuesday. They all died at the scene, police said.

A search is under way to find Kyle Clifford, 26, from the Enfield area, who is wanted in connection with the deaths. He is believed to be in Hertfordshire or north London and in possession of a crossbow, said police.

Det Supt Rob Hall, from Hertfordshire Police, appealed to anyone who knows where he is to contact the force immediately.

Police said the three victims were believed to be related and asked for their privacy to be respected.

Det Supt Hall said: “Whilst we are still in the early stages of this investigation, we are actively seeking Kyle Clifford who we believe could be in the areas of Hertfordshire or north London.

“Given the serious nature of the incident, I would ask anyone who knows where he is to contact police immediately.

“If you believe you see him, please do not approach him and dial 999 straight away. He may still be in possession of a weapon.”

He also appealed for anyone who was in the area of Ashlyn Close between lunchtime and 19:00 on Tuesday, and who may have something to assist the investigation, to get in touch.

Local councillor Louise Nicolas wrote in a post on Facebook that she was “deeply saddened to learn this morning of the tragic news that three women have lost their lives in a violent incident”.

“Should anyone wish to speak with us or require any support please do not hesitate to get in touch,” said Ms Nicolas, a Liberal Democrat who represents the North Bushey ward on Hertsmere Borough Council.

“It goes without saying that this is a live investigation, so speculation as to the circumstances should not be entered into [on public forums].”