Aberdeen University has launched an investigation into a staff member who posted on social media that she hoped former politician Ann Widdecombe had suffered an extremely painful death. Heather Herbert, a web developer at the Scottish institution, made the comments on Bluesky before police confirmed Widdecombe's death was being treated as murder.
Staffer's social media posts spark outrage
Herbert reacted to early reports of Widdecombe's death by writing: 'Some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death.' She added: 'I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony.' The posts remain visible online. After being contacted by the Gaudie student newspaper, Herbert said: 'I don't want to see anyone murdered, but I'm still glad she is dead. I'm not a hypocrite. I posted that before the murder investigation was launched.' She described herself as 'a nobody' and claimed Widdecombe had 'made the lives of ordinary people hell'.
University response and investigation
Professor Peter Edwards, Aberdeen's Principal and Vice Chancellor, stated: 'Ann Widdecombe was a highly respected figure in both the Westminster and European parliaments. The University of Aberdeen does not tolerate violence or hateful behaviour in any form. We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority.' A university Facebook post added: 'The comments that have been shared are entirely the individual's own and do not represent the views of the University of Aberdeen. Complaints into any member of staff are handled confidentially through our established processes.'
Widdecombe's death and police investigation
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found with fatal injuries at her remote Dartmoor home after she stopped answering messages and missed a scheduled interview on Thursday. Police have arrested a 28-year-old white British man on suspicion of murder in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, with support from Counter Terrorism Police. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police said they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
