Picture: Facebook. Edvard Stockings and Lisa Smith

A man suspected of shooting dead a woman on St Valentine’s Day has died after falling into the Thames.

Lisa Smith, 43, from Slough was killed outside The Three Horseshoes pub in Knockholt, Kent.

Kent Police believe the killer was Edvard Stockings – also known as Smith.

He fell from the Queen Elizabeth II which crosses the Thames at Dartford, some 17 miles from the murder scene.

A man was spotted on the wrong side of the bridge’s safety barriers and a car was abandoned nearby.

A handgun was found in the boot.

As yet, no body has been recovered from the river.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Higham said:

“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.

“Multiple searches of several areas of the river have been assisted by the Metropolitan Police, London Fire Brigade and Coastguard, but at this stage we have not recovered a body.

“These searches are ongoing and whilst our investigation will continue, we will be preparing our findings and reports to assist the coroner.

“This murder has led to the senseless loss of a beloved daughter and mother and our thoughts remain with Lisa’s family.”

Police have said that the suspect was known to the victim.

There had been no prior contact between the police and the victim or suspect.