Devon and Cornwall Police have arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of the murder of former Conservative MP and Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe. The suspect was apprehended at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening, July 11, 2026, with assistance from Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman confirmed that the man, described as a white British national, was taken into custody shortly after 9pm. He remains in custody in Devon. Police have stressed that there is no evidence to suggest a political or terrorist motive. “At this point, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism related incident,” Longman said. “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder.”
Details of the Investigation
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her remote home in Haytor, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, on Friday, July 10, with serious injuries. Police revealed that the fatal attack occurred at approximately 12:30pm on Wednesday, July 8. Her body lay undiscovered for nearly 24 hours before it was found.
Earlier on Saturday, a 26-year-old man who had been arrested in connection with the death was released without charge. The investigation has been described by police as moving at a “lightning pace.” Chief Constable James Vaughan praised the public for providing information, stating that the force had “mounted an extraordinary response to a horrific murder of a very prominent public figure.”
Forensic Evidence and Community Reaction
Forensic officers have been conducting searches at the suspect’s home in Rotherham, including the attic, and have seized a red Vauxhall Corsa described as “filthy” and “moss-covered.” CCTV footage reportedly shows the suspect placing a wooden stick into the car on the day of the murder. Locals described the suspect as a “loner” who had become reclusive after his father’s death in December 2025.
In Haytor, residents expressed shock and grief. Neighbour Christine Maloney said, “I leave my car open, I leave my front door open – not now.” Another resident, Alison Gilbert, recalled Widdecombe as “a nice woman, really nice woman, and she had a great sense of humour.”
Political Tributes and Calls for Calm
Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice, who last spoke to Widdecombe on Monday, described her as “an absolute colossus, a legend in all our lifetime.” Lee Anderson, also of Reform UK, paid tribute, saying, “She was a very kind woman. If she believed in something she didn’t care who was offended.” Tobias Ellwood, Conservative MP, noted her “commanding presence in the Commons.”
Police have urged the public to refrain from speculation. ACC Longman said, “I urge people not to share or engage with that speculation. It’s unhelpful. It doesn’t aid our investigation, and particularly, it’s distressing to the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe.” The force has received over 120 reports of information via its Major Incident Public Portal and continues to ask for any relevant footage or details.
Ongoing Police Presence
A cordon remains in place at Widdecombe’s home, and a heightened police presence is expected in the area for the coming weeks. Police have confirmed that there is no wider threat to the public. The investigation continues, with detectives remaining open-minded about the motive while emphasizing that there is no indication of a political link.
