Inquest into Ann Widdecombe's death opens July 21

A formal inquest into the death of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe will open on Tuesday, July 21, as police continue to investigate her killing as a potential act of terrorism. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, having suffered serious injuries. Authorities believe she was the victim of a targeted attack that occurred the day before her body was discovered.

A 28-year-old British man was arrested on suspicion of her murder on July 11. Two days later, counter-terrorism police took over the investigation and the suspect was further arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. Detectives are investigating whether the suspect was motivated by left-wing extremism and whether he had planned further violence. The suspect remains in custody for questioning; under terrorism laws, a suspect can be held for up to 14 days.

The inquest hearing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday at County Hall in Exeter. The proceeding will formally open the inquiry into Widdecombe's death, a standard legal step in such cases.

Widdecombe's killing has intensified a national debate over the security of...