-–
The suspect in the murder of Ann Widdecombe is Joshua Kerry, a 28-year-old man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire. There is no suspect named Alex Olney in connection with this case.
Joshua Kerry was arrested in Rotherham and is currently in custody on suspicion of murder and terrorism offenses. Police describe the killing as a targeted attack and are investigating whether left-wing or single-issue terrorism motivated the crime.
–
Employment and Recent History
Before the attack, Kerry worked an office job at a local elevator (lift) company, where colleagues described him as "part of the engine room" of the business. He was photographed participating in a charity fundraiser for sea cadets in 2022. However, after his father's death around Christmas 2025, Kerry stopped working and became increasingly reclusive.
The Alleged Attack
On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Kerry is alleged to have driven nearly 300 miles from Rotherham to Ann Widdecombe's home in Haytor Vale, Devon. CCTV footage reportedly shows him leaving his property shortly before 8:00 AM with what appears to be a pole or stick visible in his pocket. Detectives believe the attack occurred around 12:30 PM. He returned to Rotherham and remained at home until his arrest.
Arrest and Investigation
Kerry was arrested by armed officers at his home in Rotherham on the evening of Saturday, July 11. While police initially treated the death as a potential botched burglary, he was re-arrested on Monday, July 13, on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. Investigators discovered new evidence suggesting an ideological motivation for the targeted attack on the prominent Conservative figure. He remains in custody at a high-security facility.
–
https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-15985321/former-lift-employee-questioned-Ann-Widdecombes-murder.html