A murder investigation has been launched into the death of Ann Widdecombe, with her final text messages revealing a TV producer asked 'is everything okay' after she failed to appear for a scheduled interview. The former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, at around 11.40am on Thursday, July 9, after suffering serious injuries.
Arrest Made in Murder Case
Devon and Cornwall Police announced on Saturday evening that a 28-year-old man was arrested at an address in South Yorkshire on suspicion of her murder. The suspect, described as a white British national, is now in police custody. The force stated that there is no evidence to suggest the incident was politically motivated or terrorism-related. A 26-year-old man previously arrested on suspicion of murder has been released and is no longer a suspect.
Timeline of the Attack
Police believe Ms Widdecombe was attacked at 12.30pm on Wednesday, July 8, nearly 24 hours before her body was discovered. Her final televised appearance was on a TalkTV broadcast on Wednesday morning, where she discussed the upcoming Clacton by-election. She was also due to appear on ITV that day around the time of the alleged attack.
Final Text Exchange Revealed
ITV released the full text exchange between Ms Widdecombe and a researcher for Channel 5's Matt Allwright show, on which she was scheduled to appear via Zoom. The exchange began at 12.14pm with the researcher asking if she had received a link. At 12.19pm, Ms Widdecombe replied: 'Received! Panic over!!' Just 12 minutes later, at 12.48pm, the researcher asked her to join the Zoom call. When she did not respond, the researcher attempted voice calls at 12.53pm, 1.05pm, and 1.14pm, and sent a text at 12.55pm asking: 'Hi Ann is everything okay?' There was no reply.
Investigation Continues
Devon and Cornwall Police, supported by Counter Terrorism Policing North East and South Yorkshire Police, continue their investigation. A significant police presence remains at Ms Widdecombe's home in Haytor and the surrounding Dartmoor area. The force retains primacy of the investigation, and her family has been informed of the arrest.
