British Member of Parliament Jo Cox is seen in this 2015 file photo by Yui Mok/Press Association/Handout via Reuters
A British member of parliament, Jo Cox, was killed in northern England on Thursday, days ahead of a referendum on whether the UK should leave the European Union, known as “Brexit.”
Cox, 41, was shot twice and stabbed in Birstall, West Yorkshire, after attending a meeting with her constituents. She later died from her wounds.
A 52-year-old man was arrested in the area, police said. A witness told the Guardian that he heard the man shout “Britain first” before launching the attack.
Officials said it was unclear if the incident was related to the June 23 Brexit vote.
Both sides on the referendum said they would suspend campaigning. British Prime Minister David Cameron cancelled a speech he intended to make in Gibraltar.
Cox was described as a rising star in the Labor Party. She previously worked in the aid industry at Oxfam and reportedly often called for Britain to do more for the Syrian refugees.
She was married with two small children. Her husband Brendan Cox posted a tribute to her on Twitter:
— Brendan Cox (@MrBrendanCox) June 16, 2016
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