Sky News was brought to a standstill on Sunday as Devon and Cornwall Police issued an official update on the Ann Widdecombe murder inquiry, confirming the arrest of a 28-year-old man.
Arrest Made in Rotherham
Cutting abruptly to a live press conference in Exeter, Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated: "Shortly after 9pm on Saturday the 11th of July, a 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of the murder of Ms. Widdecombe." He added that officers from Counterterrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police supported the arrest on behalf of Devon and Cornwall.
No Terrorism Link
ACC Longman confirmed there was "no information to suggest that this is a terrorism-related incident" and that "at this point, we are not looking for anyone else in connection with this murder." He clarified that detectives remain "open-minded about the potential motive," but there was nothing to suggest political motivation.
Public Assistance
Longman noted that police had received "in excess of over 120 reports of information" via their major incident public portal, thanking those who came forward and urging anyone with additional information to do so. He reiterated a "heightened police presence in the coming weeks" but stressed no wider threat to the public.
Background
Ann Widdecombe, a former Tory MP turned Reform campaigner, was found with serious injuries at her home in Devon on Thursday, though police believe she was attacked on Wednesday. Prior to this arrest, a 26-year-old man was taken into custody but later released without charge.
