ON
← Back to feed
Police probe if man charged with Ann Widdecombe's murder involved in Nigel Farage 'break in'
United Kingdom🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive11 days ago

Police probe if man charged with Ann Widdecombe's murder involved in Nigel Farage 'break in'

Counter-terrorism police have reopened an investigation into an alleged attempted burglary at Nigel Farage's home in April 2025, following possible links to the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Joshua Kerry, 28, is charged with murdering Widdecombe, who was attacked with a hammer at her Devon home on July 8, 2026. Initially, Devon and Cornwall police dismissed political motives, but the case was transferred to counter-terrorism units. Officers are now reviewing evidence including fingerprints and CCTV footage from the Farage incident, which was previously closed without arrests. Farage claims the two events are connected and expressed confidence in the counter-terrorism police despite their self-referral to the police watchdog. The investigation into Widdecombe's murder continues with new lines of inquiry.

Counter-terrorism police investigating the murder of Ann Widdecombe have reopened an inquiry into an alleged attempt to firebomb Nigel Farage’s home, according to multiple reports. The incident, which occurred in April 2025, involved a lit incendiary device being pushed through the letterbox of the Reform UK leader’s residence in Greater London. At the time, the case was treated as an attempted burglary, with no suspects identified or arrests made. However, since the reopening of the investigation, police have stated that a new line of inquiry has emerged, suggesting that the initial probe may have overlooked relevant leads. The decision to reopen the case follows the arrest of 28-year-old Joshua Kerry, who has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on 8 July, having suffered serious injuries. Kerry was arrested on 11 July on suspicion of murder and again on 13 July on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. He has not yet entered a plea and is currently held in custody. The Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) London have confirmed that the investigation into the firebombing incident at Farage’s home is now part of the broader inquiry into Widdecombe’s murder. According to CTP London, the reopened probe has identified a line of inquiry that was not pursued at the time of the original investigation. This has prompted the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), to investigate the conduct of a CTP London staff member, who is alleged to have failed to identify and pursue the relevant line of inquiry. Nigel Farage, who was not present at his home during the alleged attack, described the incident as an “outright arson attempt.” He told The Telegraph in April 2025 that the device had burned itself out on the porch when he returned home. Farage expressed concern that the police had not taken the threat seriously prior to Widdecombe’s death, stating that the security services only began treating Reform UK politicians with the necessary precautions after her murder. He emphasized that the reopening of the investigation into the firebombing was “completely unprecedented” and directly linked to the murder of Widdecombe. The police have indicated that the connection between the firebombing incident and Widdecombe’s murder is not yet clear. However, the fact that the two cases are now being investigated together suggests that there may be a link between the individuals involved. The IOPC has confirmed that it is conducting an independent investigation into the conduct of the CTP London officer, though no further details have been disclosed at this stage. Ann Widdecombe had served as a Conservative MP for Maidstone, Kent, for 23 years before joining the European Parliament as a representative for the Brexit Party and later Reform UK. Her death has sparked renewed discussions about the safety of politicians, particularly within Reform UK, which has since begun providing round-the-clock security for its members due to fears of similar attacks. The reopening of the investigation into the firebombing at Farage’s home has drawn criticism from some quarters, with sources indicating that the situation represents a “very serious policing error.” The involvement of the IOPC underscores the gravity of the issue and highlights the need for transparency in the handling of such sensitive cases. Meanwhile, the legal proceedings against Joshua Kerry continue. He is scheduled to appear in court on several occasions in the coming months, with a provisional trial date set for June 2027. The case has generated significant public interest, given the high-profile nature of both the victim and the accused. The police have assured that they are taking all necessary steps to ensure that the investigation into Widdecombe’s murder is thorough and transparent. They have also committed to keeping the victims’ families informed throughout the process. As the inquiry progresses, more details about the potential links between the firebombing incident and the murder are likely to emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding these events.

4 reports

The Guardian (UK) logoThe Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8511 days ago
Politicians among mourners at funeral service for Ann Widdecombe

Former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe, who was murdered in her Devon home in July, was laid to rest at Buckfast Abbey, a Catholic site she considered her 'safe haven.' Around 100 attendees, including politicians, broadcasters, and colleagues, gathered for a 90-minute requiem mass. Among those present were figures such as shadow chancellor Mel Stride and former Conservative justice minister Crispin Blunt. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage opted not to attend but plans to participate in a public memorial later this year. Widdecombe, who served as a Conservative MP since 1987 and later joined the Brexit Party and Reform UK, was remembered for her strong convictions rooted in her Roman Catholic faith. Donations in her honor will support charitable causes in India.

Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of the event, mentioning both the personal and political aspects of Ann Widdecombe's life without overtly favoring any particular ideological stance. It includes quotes from the abbey and mentions various attendees, including political figures, without biased措

Why factuality (90): This article confirms the key facts about the funeral, including attendance, the nature of the service, and details of her death. It matches the other sources and provides additional context about Nigel Farage's absence, which is corroborated by the other articles.

Why objectivity (85): The article maintains a balanced tone, though it mentions Nigel Farage's absence, which might imply a slight editorial stance, but overall remains objective.

BBC News (UK) logoBBC News (UK)State / PublicCenterFactual 88Objective 8511 days ago
Ann Widdecombe's loved ones gather for her funeral

Ann Widdecombe, a former British politician known for her strong Roman Catholic faith and dedication to public service, passed away. Her funeral took place at the Abbey Church, where a private requiem mass was held. The service included a homily from the Abbot of Buckfast, who praised her faith and resilience. Tributes were also offered by family members and friends, highlighting her warmth and conviction. A public memorial is planned for later this year.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of Ann Widdecombe's life and legacy, focusing on her public service and religious beliefs without overtly favoring any political ideology. While she was a politician, the tone remains respectful and objective, emphasizing her personal qualities and faith over党

Why factuality (88): The article accurately reports the funeral details, including the presence of police and sniffer dogs, the homily, and quotes from the abbey statement. It aligns closely with the other articles and provides additional context about tributes from family members.

Why objectivity (85): The tone remains neutral, focusing on reporting the events without overt bias. The inclusion of tributes from family members is presented objectively.

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8011 days ago
Ann Widdecombe funeral details confirmed with family and friends to attend service today

Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokesperson, died on July 8 at age 78 after being attacked at her home. Her private funeral will be held at Buckfast Abbey in Devon, where she regularly worshipped, with a Catholic service led by the abbot and featuring music by Bach and other classical composers. Family members, including her great-nephew, will participate in the service, and donations will support charitable causes. The funeral will be followed by a public memorial later in the year. The attack, which involved multiple blows with a hammer, resulted in charges against the suspect.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Ann Widdecombe's funeral and personal background without overt ideological slant. It includes details about her political career, religious beliefs, and personal life, but does not frame these elements in a politically biased manner. The focus remains客观

Why factuality (85): The article provides accurate information about the funeral location, attendees, and details of Ann Widdecombe's death including the cause and perpetrator. It aligns with the cross-source consensus regarding the event. However, it includes some subjective descriptions of her character and faith, whi

Why objectivity (80): The tone is generally neutral, but there is some emotional language describing her as 'kind and warm' and emphasizing her faith, which could be seen as slightly biased towards portraying her positively.

Daily Mirror logoDaily MirrorIndependentProgressiveFactual 50Objective 5012 days ago
Police probe if man charged with Ann Widdecombe's murder involved in Nigel Farage 'break in'

Counter-terrorism police have reopened an investigation into an alleged attempted burglary at Nigel Farage's home in April 2025, following possible links to the murder of Ann Widdecombe. Joshua Kerry, 28, is charged with murdering Widdecombe, who was attacked with a hammer at her Devon home on July 8, 2026. Initially, Devon and Cornwall police dismissed political motives, but the case was transferred to counter-terrorism units. Officers are now reviewing evidence including fingerprints and CCTV footage from the Farage incident, which was previously closed without arrests. Farage claims the two events are connected and expressed confidence in the counter-terrorism police despite their self-referral to the police watchdog. The investigation into Widdecombe's murder continues with new lines of inquiry.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the investigation as potentially uncovering a political motive, emphasizing Farage's claim of a direct link to Widdecombe's murder. While the article presents both sides (Farage's assertion and the police's initial dismissal), the focus on the political implications and the use of

Why factuality (50): This article conflates two unrelated events: the Clapham shooting and the investigation into Ann Widdecombe's murder and the Nigel Farage break-in. It incorrectly suggests a direct link between these incidents, which is not supported by other sources.

Why objectivity (50): The article presents a highly biased perspective by suggesting a political motive and linking the murder to a break-in at Nigel Farage's home. It lacks neutrality and appears to take sides in the narrative.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories