UK Police Reopen 2025 Burglary Case in Investigation Into Ann Widdecombe Murder

LONDON: British counterterrorism police have reopened an investigation into an attempted burglary reported in London last year as part of their ongoing probe into the murder of former government minister Ann Widdecombe.

The Metropolitan Police received a report of an attempted burglary at an address in the Greater London area in April 2025. Officers investigated the incident with support from Counter Terrorism Policing London, but no arrests were made and the investigation was subsequently closed.

The case has now been reopened after Counter Terrorism Policing London identified a previously unexplored line of inquiry that could potentially be relevant to the investigation into Widdecombe’s death, according to Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing.

Police have not disclosed details of the possible connection between the two cases, saying further information could not be provided while the investigation remains active.

Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative government minister and prominent figure in Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party, was found dead at her home in rural southwest England on July 9. She had been attacked the previous day.

British prosecutors charged 28-year-old Joshua Kerry with her murder on July 20. Police have said they are continuing to investigate the motive behind the attack, including whether there was any political motivation.

The murder has attracted significant attention in Britain because of Widdecombe’s long political career and the circumstances of the attack at her home. The case has also prompted renewed discussion about the security of public figures and elected representatives.

Authorities have emphasized that the reopening of the burglary investigation does not, by itself, establish a direct connection with Widdecombe’s murder. Investigators are examining whether information from the earlier case could provide a new lead in determining the circumstances surrounding her death.

The investigation remains ongoing as counterterrorism officers and other police units continue to examine possible links and establish the motive behind the killing.