Former MP Ann Widdecombe sent a final message just 11 minutes before she was allegedly attacked at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon. Police believe the attack occurred on Wednesday at around 12:30pm, nearly 24 hours before her body was discovered at approximately 11:40am on Thursday.
Timeline of Events
A Channel 5 researcher received a message from Widdecombe at 12:19pm on Wednesday, ahead of a scheduled video interview at 1pm. The researcher replied at 12:48pm asking her to join a Zoom link, but received no response. According to ITV News, police now believe the attack took place around 12:30pm, just 11 minutes after her last message.
Devon and Cornwall Police were called to Widdecombe's home on Thursday morning, where she was found dead with serious injuries. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that her death is being treated as suspicious but added, "We do not believe there is a wider risk to the public."
Suspect Description and Arrest
Police are actively searching for a suspect described as a white male. A 26-year-old white British man was arrested on Friday at an address in Newton Abbot on suspicion of murder but was released from custody on Saturday. ACC Longman said, "Our inquiries are moving at pace for a suspect who is believed to be a white male."
The investigation is ongoing, with detectives carrying out numerous inquiries. ACC Longman appealed for public assistance, stating, "I would appeal to anyone who may have information about this incident, however insignificant it may seem, to come forward and speak with us." He also urged the public not to speculate on social media, as it could harm the investigation and cause distress to Widdecombe's family.
Investigation and Public Appeal
Devon and Cornwall Police have set up a major incident public portal for submitting information, images, or footage. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers. ACC Longman emphasized, "Our priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined."
Widdecombe, a former Tory prisons minister and MP, was a well-known political figure. Her family has requested privacy as they come to terms with her death. The investigation continues as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
