Former Conservative MP and former Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe was found dead in her kitchen in Haytor, Devon, on the evening of July 18.
Police reported that she lay face down on the floor with visible injuries and was declared deceased at the scene after emergency services were called.
The inquest began after a welfare check was conducted when she became uncontactable. The coroner confirmed she was unresponsive and suffered serious injuries.
Joshua Kerry, a 28‑year‑old resident of Rotherham, was arrested on July 20 on suspicion of murder. He was also detained on suspicion of involvement in acts of terrorism, although no charge has yet been filed for that offence.
The Crown Prosecution Service has announced that it will prosecute Kerry for murder, citing sufficient evidence gathered by police to bring the case to court.
Widdecombe had served as a Member of Parliament from 1987, later becoming an MEP for the Brexit Party and a Reform UK spokesperson, and was known for appearances on television reality shows.
In response to the tragedy, a review of the safety measures protecting elected officials has been called for, with authorities working to ensure politicians are informed about existing protective protocols.
