An inquest into the death of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe will be opened on Tuesday morning at County Hall in Exeter. The 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9, having suffered serious injuries.
Arrest and Investigation
A 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of murder on July 11 and remains in police custody. Two days after the arrest, counter-terrorism police took over the investigation, further arresting the suspect on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism. Under terrorism laws, a suspect can be held for up to seven days initially, with extensions possible up to 14 days. The initial seven-day period is understood to expire on Monday evening.
Details of the Incident
Police believe Widdecombe was the victim of a targeted attack, occurring the day before her body was discovered. The inquest hearing is scheduled for 10am on Tuesday to formally open proceedings into her death. Widdecombe, a prominent political figure, served as a Conservative MP and later as an MEP for the Brexit Party.
