Ann Widdecombe, 78, was struck 21 times with a hammer during a home invasion on July 8, 2026, prosecutors said at a London court hearing on July 21.
The incident, captured by a home camera, unfolded in approximately two minutes, according to the court. Widdecombe, a Reform UK politician and former Conservative minister, was found dead on July 9 after the assault, which prosecutors described as a targeted attack.
Details of the Attack
Prosecutor Kashif Malik detailed the attack during a Westminster Magistrates’ Court hearing, stating that Kerry entered Widdecombe’s home in Haytor, Devon, on July 8 and asked, Don’t suppose you have bank cards and ID?
Kerry, wearing black gloves and a hammer concealed at his side, struck Widdecombe 21 times on the head, according to the prosecution. The footage from her home camera showed him tipping her from her chair onto the floor, searching her handbag, and leaving with a wallet before departing in two minutes. Malik noted the blunt force injury to the head
was the provisional cause of death.
The attack occurred after Widdecombe missed a scheduled live television interview on July 8. Her personal assistant later asked a gardener to check on her, leading to the discovery of her body on July 9. No evidence of forced entry was presented.
Suspect’s Background and Court Appearance
Kerry, a white British national from Rotherham, appeared in court wearing a grey tracksuit and did not enter a plea. He was remanded in custody until his next appearance at the Old Bailey in October. The prosecution confirmed an investigation into possible terrorism offences was ongoing, though no motive has been disclosed. Kerry’s address and age were the only details provided about him in court, with no mention of prior connections to Widdecombe.
During the hearing, Kerry remained emotionless as the allegations were read aloud. Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring stated the case would be transferred to the crown court, where it will be tried. The prosecution has not yet released forensic details, CCTV footage, or phone records, which are expected to be presented at the Old Bailey.
Impact on Political Security
The killing has reignited concerns about the security of British politicians, with two serving British members of parliament having been killed since 2016. Widdecombe, known for her socially conservative views and roles in the Conservative government and Reform UK, had been a prominent public figure.
Unanswered Questions
The prosecution has not confirmed whether the attack was politically motivated or linked to broader criminal activity.
Next Steps in the Case
Kerry is remanded in custody until his next appearance in October. The prosecution has not yet outlined its full case, and the defense has not made any public statements.
The case underscores the challenges of prosecuting high-profile crimes with limited public information. As the investigation continues, the focus will shift to the Old Bailey, where the full evidence and arguments will be presented. For now, the brutal nature of the attack and the unanswered questions surrounding it remain central to the public’s understanding of the case.
Related reading
