Full Breakdown
Police Reopen Burglary Probe as Part of Ann Widdecombe Murder Investigation
8/8/2026, 10:45:56 PM
Core Development
On August 7, British counter-terrorism police announced that they had reopened an investigation into an attempted burglary reported in April 2025 in Greater London. The reopening is being pursued as a line of enquiry within the ongoing probe into the murder of former government minister Ann Widdecombe, whose death was recorded on July 9 after an attack the previous day. Prosecutors later that month charged 28-year-old Joshua Kerry with the killing. No arrests resulted from the original burglary inquiry, which was closed after initial enquiries by the Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing London.
Background of the Widdecombe Case
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was a senior figure in Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. After being assaulted at her rural southwest-England home, she was found dead on July 9. The motive behind the murder, including any possible political dimension, remains under investigation. The burglary incident, occurring at a separate London address, was initially deemed unrelated but has now been linked by counter-terrorism officials to a previously unexplored investigative thread.
Official Statement
Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, explained that the renewed burglary inquiry uncovered a line of enquiry that had not been identified or pursued during the original investigation and that this may be relevant to the murder probe. Police have not disclosed further details on how the two cases intersect.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Following the re-opening of the attempted burglary investigation, Counter Terrorism Policing London identified a line of enquiry which was not identified and pursued by them at the time, which may have been relevant,” — Vicki Evans
Timeline
- April 2025 – Attempted burglary reported in Greater London; initial enquiries conducted, case closed.
- July 9 – Ann Widdecombe found dead after being attacked the day before.
- Later in July – Joshua Kerry charged with Widdecombe’s murder.
- August 7 – Counter-terrorism police announce reopening of the burglary investigation as part of the murder probe.
