Police Scotland has reopened an investigation into a university worker who posted online celebrating the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen, wrote on the social media platform Bluesky that Widdecombe's death was 'some good news for once' and expressed hope that she 'died an extremely painful death' and was 'handcuffed to a bed as she screamed in agony.'
Initial Assessment and Reopening
The posts, made before Widdecombe's death was treated as murder, were initially deemed not a criminal matter. However, Police Scotland has now confirmed that 'additional inquiries' are being carried out. A spokesperson stated: 'We received reports on Saturday, 11 July, 2026 relating to a post made online. Following further assessment, additional inquiries are being carried out.'
University Response
The University of Aberdeen has also launched an investigation into Herbert's comments. A spokesperson told The Press and Journal: 'We are aware of the comments being referred to online and are looking into the matter.' Herbert has defended her remarks, calling the public reaction 'hugely overblown.'
Widdecombe's Death and Counter-Terrorism Probe
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, Devon, last Thursday. Counter-terrorism police have taken the lead in the investigation, confirming that Widdecombe was the victim of a 'targeted attack.' Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of Counter Terrorism Policing, stated: 'It is clear that this was a targeted attack. We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind that attack.' He added that the murder and terror investigations are running 'in parallel' and declined to comment on the motivation.
