UK Man Faces Charges for Politician's Murder and Terror Plot

WHO:

Fox News - Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old man from South Yorkshire, is accused of planning acts of terrorism and charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe.

CNN - Ann Widdecombe, a 78-year-old former UK lawmaker and member of the Conservative Party, was murdered.

WHAT:

Fox News - Kerry has been charged with one count of preparation of terrorist acts, including against Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK.

CNN - Kerry was charged with the murder of Widdecombe, who was found dead after being struck 21 times with a hammer.

Fox News - The murder of Widdecombe occurred on July 8, when Kerry allegedly attacked her in her home.

CNN - The charges against Kerry relate to activities alleged to have occurred between May 31, 2024, and July 8, 2026.

WHERE:

Fox News - The murder took place in Devon, England.

CNN - Kerry is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London.

WHEN:

Fox News - Kerry has been in custody since late July.

CNN - Kerry is expected to appear in court next Wednesday.

WHY:

Fox News - The charges against Kerry are described as "extremely concerning" by UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, highlighting the security risks for public figures.

HOW:

Fox News - The investigation leading to the charges was conducted by a team of detectives, analysts, and forensic experts within the Counterterrorism Policing network.

(UPDATED October 3, 2026 16:31 UTC)

A 28-year-old man from South Yorkshire, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with the murder of 78-year-old Ann Widdecombe, a former UK lawmaker, who was found dead after being struck 21 times with a hammer in her Devon home. Kerry is also facing charges for planning acts of terrorism, including potential attacks against Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, and is expected to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London next Wednesday. UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has described the charges as "extremely concerning," emphasizing the security risks posed to public figures, following an investigation by a specialized team within the Counterterrorism Policing network.