Full Breakdown
Reopened London Burglary Probe Linked to Ann Widdecombe Murder Investigation
8/8/2026, 10:43:49 AM
Reopening of the Attempted Burglary Inquiry
On August 7 2026, Counter-terrorism Policing London announced that it had reopened an investigation into an attempted burglary reported in April 2025 at a Greater London address. The move was described as part of the ongoing probe into the murder of former minister Ann Widdecombe. Counter-terrorism officers said a new line of inquiry, previously “not identified and pursued,” may be relevant to the homicide case.
Background of the Widdecombe Case
Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative MP and later Reform UK spokeswoman, was discovered with serious head injuries at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon. Sources differ on the exact timing of her death: some reports state she died on July 8 2026, while others note she was found dead on July 9 2026. The fatal attack involved a hammer striking her head 21 times.
Suspect and Legal Proceedings
- July 11 2026 – Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder.
- July 13 2026 – Kerry was additionally arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
- July 20 2026 – He was formally charged with Widdecombe’s murder.
- October 9 2026 – A case-management hearing is scheduled at Westminster Magistrates’ Court.
- November 20 2026 – A plea and trial-preparation hearing is set.
- June 8 2027 – A provisional trial date has been fixed.
Official Statements & Responses
- “As part of the ongoing investigation led by counter-terrorism policing south-east into the murder of Ann Widdecombe, officers have reopened an investigation into an incident reported to police last year.”
- “The conduct relates to an allegation the individual failed to identify and pursue a line of enquiry relating to an attempted burglary reported in April 2025.”
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it will independently investigate the conduct of the Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) staff member who is alleged to have missed the earlier line of inquiry. Both CTP London and the Metropolitan Police said they will “engage fully and comprehensively” with the watchdog.
Data & Statistics
- Victim: Ann Widdecombe, 78, former minister.
- Suspect: Joshua Kerry, 28.
- Weapon: hammer; 21 blows to the head.
- Original burglary report: April 2025, Greater London.
- Charges: murder (July 20 2026); terrorism-related suspicion (July 13 2026).
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Date of death: Some outlets report Widdecombe died on July 8, while others state she was found dead on July 9.
- Connection between burglary and murder: Police have not disclosed how the newly identified line of inquiry links the London burglary to the Dartmoor killing, leaving a substantive gap in public understanding.
What’s Next
The investigation remains active. The IOPC’s review of CTP staff conduct is ongoing, and further updates are expected as court proceedings advance on the scheduled dates of October 9 2026, November 20 2026, and June 8 2027.
