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Ann Widdecombe Murder: Hammer Attack Details Revealed in Court

other · 2026-07-20

On Tuesday, a London court was informed that Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old white British citizen from northern England, assaulted former UK government minister Ann Widdecombe with a hammer, striking her 21 times on the head. Widdecombe, aged 78 and a notable member of Nigel Farage's Reform UK, was discovered deceased at her residence in rural southwest England on July 9, following the attack the day before. Prosecutor Kashif Malik revealed that the incident was recorded by a camera inside her home. Authorities suspect that Widdecombe was specifically targeted, although the motive is still being investigated. Kerry appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court facing murder charges and was not required to enter a plea; he is set to appear at the Old Bailey later that day.

Key facts

  • Ann Widdecombe was struck 21 times with a hammer.
  • The attack occurred at her home in rural southwest England.
  • She was found dead on July 9, 2024.
  • Joshua Kerry, 28, from northern England, is charged with murder.
  • A camera inside the home captured the incident.
  • Widdecombe was a former government minister and Reform UK member.
  • Police believe she was targeted, motive still unknown.
  • Kerry appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court and will go to the Old Bailey.

Entities

Institutions

  • Reform UK
  • Westminster Magistrates' Court
  • Old Bailey
  • Crown Prosecution Service
  • CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division

Locations

  • London
  • England
  • southwest England
  • northern England

Sources