A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been arrested on suspicion of murdering former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe in a suspected terrorist attack at her Devon home on July 8. Police later re-arrested him under terrorism legislation following new evidence.
Suspect profile: A 'quiet and shy' figure from Rotherham
Joshua Kerry, described by neighbours as polite and reserved, lived alone in a council house in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, following the death of his father, Paul Yates, last year. The elder Mr Yates, a former steel industry research engineer, had lost a leg and was later diagnosed with stomach cancer in his 60s.
Raised in Rotherham by his teaching assistant mother, Siobhan, after his parents separated, Kerry worked briefly at a lift company, where colleagues recalled his participation in a 2022 charity fundraiser. His family, well-known on the Kimberworth Park estate, includes several military veterans.
Arrest and ongoing investigation
Detectives believe Ms Widdecombe, 78, was killed at approximately 12:30pm on July 8. Kerry was detained on July 12 after armed officers raided his Rotherham property, where neighbours reported seeing him dispose of an item in his wheelie bin earlier that day.
Initially treated as a potential burglary, the case shifted after investigators uncovered alleged evidence suggesting a terrorist motive. Kerry remains in custody, with police permitted to hold him until Tuesday for further questioning.
Community reaction and next steps
Neighbours expressed shock at the arrest, recalling Kerry as a considerate figure who would assist with tasks such as taking out bins or holding parcels. One resident noted his devotion to his late father, with whom he would frequently go shopping during his illness.
Forensic teams continue to examine Kerry’s home, while his red Vauxhall Corsa was towed for investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether charges will be filed.
