University of Aberdeen worker charged by police over Ann Widdecombe death comments

16th July, 2026 | News

University of Aberdeen Employee Charged Over Social Media Post Following Ann Widdecombe’s Death

A 50-year-old University of Aberdeen employee has been arrested and charged after a social media post made following the death of former British politician Ann Widdecombe.

According to Police Scotland, the investigation began after authorities received reports on July 11, 2026, regarding a post shared on the social media platform Bluesky. Although police initially stated that no criminality had been identified, further assessment led to the arrest and charging of the individual. A report will now be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

The individual has been identified as Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen. The university confirmed it has launched its own internal investigation into the matter.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Devon on July 9, 2026. Police believe she was attacked the previous day and later discovered with serious injuries. Her death is being treated as a suspected murder.

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old man remains in police custody on suspicion of murder, as well as the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism, in connection with the ongoing investigation.

Authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific nature of the social media post, while investigations into both the homicide and the online comments continue.