Former MP and prisons minister Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, on Thursday morning after sustaining serious injuries. Devon and Cornwall Police announced on Friday that they are treating her death as a murder investigation.
Police Response and Arrest
Police were called to the 78-year-old's residence at approximately 11:40 a.m. on Thursday by the ambulance service. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. On Friday, a 26-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot on suspicion of murder. However, police confirmed on Saturday morning that the man has been released from custody and is no longer a suspect in the investigation.
Investigation Details
Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the case is "not being treated as terrorism" and there is "no information" at this time to suggest it was a "politically-motivated crime." He added that the investigation is moving at a "significant pace" and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
Political Reactions
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged unity across political divides following the murder. He said he had spoken to his likely successor Andy Burnham, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to "urge everybody to come together at a moment like this." Conservative leader Badenoch said she "really struggled to find the words to say" and described the attack as "nasty, horrific." Reform UK leader Farage called the death a "terrible reflection on modern Britain," adding that for anyone in public life, "things have become even more dangerous today."
