Aberdeen University worker faces fierce backlash after wishing Ann Widdecombe an ‘extremely painful death’
An official investigation has been launched by the University of Aberdeen after a member of its staff sparked nationwide outrage by publicly wishing former MP Ann Widdecombe an “extremely painful death” shortly after she was found murdered.
Heather Herbert, a web developer at the Scottish university, posted the highly offensive comments on her social media account within hours of the news of Ms Widdecombe’s tragic death reaching the public. The 78-year-old former Conservative Minister and Brexit Party MEP was found dead at her remote home on Dartmoor, Devon, prompting detectives—now led by counter-terrorism officers—to launch a full-scale homicide investigation.
Taking to the social media platform BlueSky, Herbert responded to the initial announcement of the politician’s passing by writing: “Some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death.” The university employee then added: “And I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony.”
The shocking online remarks immediately triggered widespread condemnation, with members of the public branding them “vile” and pointing out the unnecessary level of hatred. Politicians have also intervened, with Reform MSP Mark Simpson writing directly to the University of Aberdeen to demand Herbert’s immediate suspension or dismissal, stating that such comments are entirely unacceptable in a civilized society.
Despite the intense public backlash, Herbert has refused to apologize for her statements. When challenged by the university’s student newspaper, The Gaudie, the web developer actively defended her posts, arguing that she had published them before police officially announced they were treating the death as a murder. She further attempted to justify her actions by claiming that she herself holds no institutional power, whereas Ms Widdecombe was “able to make the lives of ordinary people hell” during her decades in politics.
The University of Aberdeen has confirmed that a priority review is now underway regarding the staff member’s conduct. A university spokesperson stated: “The university is aware of social media posts made by a member of staff regarding the death of Ann Widdecombe and is reviewing this as a matter of priority. The comments that have been shared are entirely the individual’s own and do not represent the views of the University of Aberdeen.”
The controversy comes as counter-terrorism police continue to question a 28-year-old man arrested in connection with the brutal murder, which has sent shockwaves through the British political landscape.
