Counter-terrorism police have announced that the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe was a 'targeted attack'. The 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, last Thursday.
Police Update on Investigation
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, told reporters: 'It is clear that this was a targeted attack. We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind that attack.' He added that the murder and terror investigations are running 'in parallel'.
Officers have been granted a warrant of further detention, allowing them to hold a 28-year-old white British man for up to seven days under the Terrorism Act. He remains under arrest on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism, as well as on suspicion of murder.
Details of the Attack
Miss Widdecombe's body was discovered at around 11.40am on Thursday at her remote bungalow, with serious injuries. Police believe the attack occurred at around 12.30pm on Wednesday. Footage of the arrest has been shared with news outlets.
Mr Taylor stated: 'There are multiple lines of inquiry that we are pursuing expeditiously, and that includes a number of digital forensic examinations. It is important to remember that this is a murder investigation following a brutal attack on a 78-year-old lady in her home.'
Defence of Police Response
Alison Hernandez, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall Police, defended the force against criticisms that it had attempted to 'massage public opinion'. She expressed confidence that the force had 'provided a substantial and professional response' to the murder.
