A 26-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, Devon, on Thursday. Devon and Cornwall Police launched a murder investigation after discovering her body with serious injuries at 11:40am on July 9.
Police Confirm Arrest After Manhunt
The arrest followed an extensive search for a white male suspect. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated the death is not being treated as terror-related, and there is "no information" to suggest it was a "politically motivated crime."
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson earlier appealed for public help, saying: "This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time. Our murder inquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace. We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male."
Tributes and Political Reaction
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer expressed shock, stating: "This is really shocking news, and my thoughts, I think all of our thoughts, will be with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this awful time for them. Ann was a distinguished politician over many, many years with many achievements, and it's a huge, huge loss." He urged the public to assist police in identifying the suspect, describing him as "clearly dangerous."
Prospective Labour leader Andy Burnham also offered condolences via a spokesperson, saying: "Andy's deepest condolences and thoughts are with Ann's family today, in incredibly distressing circumstances. Ann gave a lifetime of public service, and it's absolutely right that the police put all their resources into investigating this as swiftly as possible."
Witness Appeal and Investigation
Miss Widdecombe's management firm Cloud 9 appealed for witnesses, stating: "We are absolutely devastated by this news following a very traumatic and upsetting 24 hours. We fully support the police in their investigations and we reiterate the family's desire not to be contacted at this difficult time."
Police have set up a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) for information, images, or footage. They can be contacted via 101 or the police website, quoting reference 50260179119 and Operation Hunlen. Anonymous tips can be given to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was a former Conservative minister, later serving as a Brexit Party MEP and Reform UK representative. She also gained fame after appearing on Strictly Come Dancing.
