Former MP and Express columnist Ann Widdecombe has died at the age of 78, prompting a murder investigation after she was found with serious injuries at her home in Devon. Emergency services were called to her property in Haytor Vale, Haytor, at approximately 11:40am on Friday, July 10, 2026. Devon and Cornwall Police later confirmed that a murder inquiry has been launched, with officers working to identify a white male suspect.
Police Launch Manhunt for Suspect
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson stated: "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 enquiry 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." Police are appealing for anyone with information, CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage in the vicinity of Haytor Vale to come forward.
Political Reactions Pour In
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed being "deeply saddened" by Widdecombe’s death, urging the public to allow police investigations to proceed without speculation. Kemi Badenoch said she was "stunned" by the news, adding that "The Conservative Party is reeling." Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson described Widdecombe as "a heroic Brexiteer" and "a great speaker who could move Tory audiences to such ecstasy that she was a very hard act to follow."
Management and Family Statement
Ann Widdecombe’s management team, Cloud9 Management, said they were "absolutely devastated" and requested privacy for the family. Their statement read: "We fully support the police in their investigations and we reiterate the family’s desire not to be contacted at this difficult time. We implore anyone who may have relevant information to contact Devon & Cornwall Police."
Peter Tatchell’s Controversial Comments
Human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell sparked outrage with a post on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after Widdecombe’s death was announced. He wrote: "Tory ex-MP Ann Widdecombe is dead! She opposed every gay law reform for 40 years, supporting every legal discrimination against LGBTs. She also backed bids to 'cure' homosexuality and said people should have the right to discriminate against LGBTs. BIGOT!" The comments triggered backlash, with many arguing that political disagreements should be set aside following someone’s death.
One X user responded: "As a 'queer' man I find this post in poor taste. Yes she had her opinions on the gay folk which she is entitled to have but given what's happened this is not the time for that debate." Former MP Rupert Lowe branded Tatchell a "pr***" in a reply. Another user said: "You're better than this Peter."
Widdecombe’s Political Career
Widdecombe was a prominent Eurosceptic and vocal supporter of the Vote Leave campaign during the Brexit referendum. After leaving the Conservative Party, she joined the Brexit Party in 2019 and served as a Member of the European Parliament for South West England until the UK’s withdrawal from the EU in 2020. She later joined Nigel Farage’s Reform UK in 2023. Widdecombe was also known for her socially conservative views, including opposition to abortion and criticism of LGBT rights reforms.
