Police Release Arrested Man in Ann Widdecombe Murder Investigation
Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed that a 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murdering former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe has been released from custody and is no longer part of the investigation. The man, described as white British, was apprehended at a property in Newton Abbot on Friday, but has since been freed as inquiries continue.
Discovery of Ann Widdecombe's Body
Ms Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries. The former Conservative prisons minister later became a Brexit Party MEP and a Reform UK spokesperson. She also gained celebrity status through appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Police Statement on Motive
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of Devon and Cornwall Police stated that the death is "not being treated as terrorism" and there is "no information" currently suggesting it was a "politically-motivated crime." Officers are maintaining an "open-minded" approach regarding the motive and declined to comment on whether the suspect knew Ms Widdecombe, saying it was premature to do so.
Reactions from Political Leaders
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage described the murder as a "terrible reflection on modern Britain" and expressed fear that "for anybody in public life, or especially the political space, things have become even more dangerous today." Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for unity across political divides, revealing he had spoken to his probable successor Andy Burnham, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, and Mr Farage to "urge everybody to come together at a moment like this." Conservative leader Mrs Badenoch said she "really struggled to find the words to say" following Ms Widdecombe's death, adding: "I don't understand how someone could do something so horrific to an elderly person. It was a nasty, horrific attack and my heart is breaking for her family."
