Police Scotland probes social post on Widdecombe's death

Police in Scotland are investigating a social media post that allegedly celebrated the death of former politician Ann Widdecombe, who was killed in what counter-terrorism officers have described as a targeted attack. The post, which has since been deleted, was reportedly made by Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen.

Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative MP and MEP who most recently served as Reform UK's immigration spokesperson, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday, July 9, 2026. A 28-year-old white British man was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday, July 11, on suspicion of murder and on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation.

Police Scotland confirmed on Tuesday, July 14, that they had received reports about the online post on Saturday and, following further assessment, were carrying out additional enquiries. A spokesperson for the University of Aberdeen said the comments were entirely the individual's own and did not represent the views of the institution, adding that the university does not condone violence or...