Police have arrested a man in connection with the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, but they do not believe her murder was politically motivated. The 78-year-old was found dead in her bungalow in Haytor, a village on Dartmoor, Devon. Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP who later joined the Brexit Party and then became a spokesperson for Reform UK, lived alone in the property. She was discovered by a carer covered in blood, having suffered at least one serious head wound.
Authorities have not confirmed the cause of death, which was reported earlier today. A 26-year-old white British male has been taken into custody on suspicion of her murder. The arrest took place in Newton Abbot, a town approximately 10 miles from the residence of the late former Strictly Come Dancing star.
During a press briefing, Devon and Cornwall Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that there is no evidence suggesting a political motive behind the crime and clarified that it is not linked to terrorism. Details regarding potential theft during the incident, forced entry, or the use of a weapon have not been disclosed.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson emphasized the speed of the ongoing murder investigation, expressing condolences to Widdecombe’s family and friends. She highlighted the urgency in identifying the perpetrator, believed to be a white male.
Shortly after the briefing, authorities confirmed the arrest of a suspect. Chief Constable Longman stressed the importance of public cooperation, urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward and assist in the investigation.
The police were alerted to the situation at Widdecombe’s residence in Haytor Vale within Dartmoor National Park by the ambulance service on Thursday morning. The former MP, who resided alone, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her relatives have been notified and are receiving support from specialized officers.
Ann Widdecombe retired from politics in 2001 and settled in her Devon abode, known as Widdecombe’s Rest, in 2008. In a past interview, she expressed a lack of fear regarding potential threats, stating her comfort and contentment in her residence, despite lacking extensive security measures.
Widdecombe acknowledged receiving death threats in the past but adopted a nonchalant approach, disregarding them and emphasizing the importance of open interaction between MPs and constituents.