A man, identified as Joshua Kerry, is under suspicion by counter-terror authorities for the alleged murder of Ann Widdecombe. The 78-year-old former Tory minister was found deceased in her Devon residence. Kerry, 28, was apprehended at his residence in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, last Saturday.
Initially, law enforcement considered Widdecombe’s death a failed burglary, but later re-arrested Kerry on terrorism-related suspicions. He is currently detained for questioning until Tuesday with the possibility of an extension. Kerry, seen in a photo from 2022 sporting jeans and a green shirt, was pictured smiling while holding Easter eggs.
Widdecombe, who had a notable political career spanning various roles including as an MEP for the Brexit Party, was tragically killed at her bungalow on the edge of Dartmoor National Park just before a scheduled TV appearance. Her body was discovered nearly 24 hours later in her kitchen.
Tributes poured in for Widdecombe, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood honoring her contributions to public service and politics. House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle also paid his respects, highlighting Widdecombe’s political legacy and urging caution in discussing the case to avoid prejudicing any future trial.
Counter Terrorism Policing took over the investigation following initial statements ruling out political motives in Widdecombe’s death. The case continues to unfold as authorities delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
